DEA Warns of Carfentanil Comeback in Florida: 100 Times Stronger Than Fentanyl

Federal drug enforcement officials are warning that carfentanil — a synthetic opioid so potent that a dose smaller than a grain of salt can kill a human — is making a deadly comeback in Florida's drug supply. The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) has designated interrupting carfentanil trafficking as one of its highest priorities.

What Is Happening

According to the DEA's Tampa Field Division, carfentanil seizures have been rising steadily over the past two years. After initial detections began drawing attention two years ago, the number of seized drugs testing positive for carfentanil tripled within a year — and 2026 is on track to show even higher numbers.

Carfentanil is estimated to be 100 times stronger than fentanyl and 10,000 times more potent than morphine. Originally developed as a veterinary tranquilizer for large animals like elephants, it has no approved medical use in humans. Mexican drug cartels have reportedly begun using carfentanil to produce stronger, more potent versions of fentanyl and other drugs after the Chinese government banned precursor chemicals used to manufacture fentanyl.

This is not the first time carfentanil has appeared in the U.S. drug supply. Major outbreaks in 2016 and 2017 killed more than 1,000 people in Florida alone before the substance temporarily receded from prominence.

Clinical Consequences

The extreme potency of carfentanil creates severe risks for anyone exposed to the substance:

• Rapid onset of overdose: Effects can occur within minutes of exposure
• Respiratory depression: The drug suppresses breathing at microscopic doses
• High fatality risk: A dose smaller than a grain of salt can be lethal
• Unpredictable presence: Carfentanil may be mixed into heroin, cocaine, methamphetamine, or counterfeit pills without the user's knowledge

Because carfentanil is being used to adulterate other substances, individuals who do not typically use opioids may be at risk if they consume contaminated drugs.

What to Do

For People Who Use Drugs

• Never use alone: Have someone present who can call for help and administer naloxone
• Start with a small amount: Test the supply with a minimal dose first
• Keep naloxone accessible: Multiple doses may be necessary due to carfentanil's extreme potency
• Use drug checking services: Fentanyl test strips can detect some adulterants, though they may not identify carfentanil specifically
• Call 911 immediately if overdose symptoms appear

For Family Members and Caregivers

• Learn the signs of opioid overdose: pinpoint pupils, slowed or stopped breathing, blue lips or fingernails, unresponsiveness
• Obtain naloxone and learn how to use it — multiple doses may be required
• Ensure your loved one knows about the increased risks in the current drug supply
• Keep emergency numbers readily available

For First Responders

• Exercise extreme caution when handling unknown substances
• Use appropriate personal protective equipment
• Be prepared to administer multiple doses of naloxone
• Continue rescue breathing until emergency medical services arrive

Naloxone Considerations

Naloxone remains the primary antidote for opioid overdoses involving carfentanil. However, due to the substance's extreme potency:

• Multiple doses may be necessary: A single dose of naloxone may not be sufficient
• Longer monitoring periods: Re-narcotization can occur after initial naloxone administration
• Continue rescue efforts: Basic life support may be needed until naloxone takes effect
• Call emergency services: Even if naloxone appears to work, professional medical evaluation is essential

The FDA recently extended the shelf life of over-the-counter naloxone from three to four years, making it easier to maintain emergency supplies.

Where to Get Help

Immediate Emergency: Call 911 if you suspect an overdose

SAMHSA National Helpline: 1-800-662-HELP (4357)
Free, confidential, 24/7 treatment referral and information

988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Call or text 988
For mental health crises and emotional support

FindTreatment.gov: Search for local addiction treatment providers

Naloxone Access: Available without prescription at most pharmacies; check with your local health department for free distribution programs

This alert is based on information from the DEA Tampa Field Division and CDC surveillance data. If you or someone you know is struggling with substance use, help is available and treatment works.