Fentanyl dominates street drug supply in Plovdiv, Bulgaria

Biochemist Dr. Yulian Karadzhov reports that approximately 95% of street drugs in Plovdiv, Bulgaria, are now fentanyl, with heroin becoming nearly non-existent in the local market. The substance is being produced by amateur chemists using Chinese precursors purchased online with simplified instructions.

Because these drugs are mixed using basic tools rather than laboratory equipment, concentrations vary wildly, creating a ‘Russian roulette’ scenario for users. Karadzhov noted that fentanyl is often diluted with paracetamol and caffeine, making accidental inhalation of dust particles potentially lethal.

Additionally, cocaine laced with fentanyl is entering the country, a trend originating in the United States that increases addiction severity. Other dangerous substances mentioned include nitazenes, which have been linked to suicides during withdrawal, and nitrous oxide, which can cause neurological degradation and anemia by depleting vitamin B12.