Fentanyl detected in 32% of synthetic cannabinoid users in São Paulo

A study conducted by researchers at the University of São Paulo Medical School (FMUSP) has identified the presence of fentanyl in the saliva of 32% of participants who reported using synthetic cannabinoids, such as K2 or K9, in São Paulo.

The research, published in the scientific journal Drug and Alcohol, involved 65 volunteers receiving treatment for chemical dependency. While 69% of the samples tested positive for at least one substance, none of the participants reported the intentional use of fentanyl or any other opioids.

The study participants were predominantly male (83%), aged between 23 and 29, and largely unemployed or without a high school diploma. Approximately 42% of the volunteers were experiencing homelessness. The findings suggest a potential contamination of the local drug supply, which is significant given that Brazil has historically maintained lower rates of non-medical opioid use compared to North America and Europe.