BTMPS Found in U.S. Fentanyl Raises Health Concerns

Recent studies have revealed that a significant portion of street fentanyl in Philadelphia contains BTMPS, an industrial chemical used in plastics, with its prevalence increasing over time. BTMPS is suspected to be added to stabilize fentanyl precursors or to dilute drugs economically, posing health risks as it is not intended for human consumption. The emergence of BTMPS in illicit drugs has been noted across the U.S., with research indicating it might be introduced at a high level in the drug supply chain due to shortages of precursor chemicals. Meanwhile, the debate over reclassifying fentanyl as a Schedule I drug continues, with opponents arguing it could hinder research and lead to increased incarceration of minorities. Additionally, U.S.-manufactured drugs, including fentanyl, are being trafficked into Canada, contradicting claims that external countries are the primary sources of harmful drugs entering the U.S.