Electroanalysis of Fentanyl and Its New Analogs: A Review

Abstract

The review describes fentanyl and its analogs as new synthetic opioids and the possibilities of their identification and determination using electrochemical methods (e.g., voltammetry, potentiometry, electrochemiluminescence) and electrochemical methods combined with various separation methods. The review also covers the analysis of new synthetic opioids, their parent compounds, and corresponding metabolites in body fluids, such as urine, blood, serum, and plasma, necessary for a fast and accurate diagnosis of intoxication. Identifying and quantifying these addictive and illicit substances and their metabolites is necessary for clinical, toxicological, and forensic purposes. As a reaction to the growing number of new synthetic opioid intoxications and increasing fatalities observed over the past ten years, we provide thorough background for developing new biosensors, screen-printed electrodes, or other point-of-care devices.

Electrochemical Determination of Fentanyl Using Carbon Nanofiber-Modified Electrodes

“…In recent years, a number of reports have described electrochemical measurements of fentanyl, the majority of which are based on carbon electrodes such as carbon nano-onions, carbon nanotubes (CNTs), − carbon paste microneedles, screen-printed carbon electrodes (SPCEs), laser-ablated porous carbon electrodes, and graphene oxide-modified electrodes . Recent review articles on electrochemical sensors for fentanyl detection underscored the need for not only higher-performance devices capable of detecting extremely low concentrations (<80 nM) of fentanyl in both street drugs and in biologically relevant solutions but also the development of low-cost disposable sensors. , The above-cited literature establishes that the oxidation of the drug is adsorption-driven, − which can potentially create fouling effects from byproducts and other interferents present in fentanyl-containing samples. When this cross-contamination is an expected issue, the use of low-cost, disposable materials in sensor fabrication is advantageous.…”

“… 26 Recent review articles on electrochemical sensors for fentanyl detection underscored the need for not only higher-performance devices capable of detecting extremely low concentrations (<80 nM) of fentanyl in both street drugs and in biologically relevant solutions but also the development of low-cost disposable sensors. 27 , 28 The above-cited literature establishes that the oxidation of the drug is adsorption-driven, 19 − 26 which can potentially create fouling effects from byproducts and other interferents present in fentanyl-containing samples. When this cross-contamination is an expected issue, the use of low-cost, disposable materials in sensor fabrication is advantageous.…”

Synthesis and Identification of A Novel Fentanyl Analog

“…Since fentanyl was first synthesized by Paul Jensen in 1960 in Belgium, various fentanyl analogs such as sufentanil and alfentanil have been developed to provide more efficient pain management solutions [2,3]. However, the misuse and illegal production of these compounds have led to a public health crisis, the overdose of fentanyl and its analogs has become a major concern [4,5]. International control over fentanyl and its analogs has been strengthened, but the rapid emergence of new synthetic opioids presents unprecedented challenges to regulatory and law enforcement efforts [6,7].…”

A nonmetal substrate of surface‐enhanced Raman spectroscopy for trace fentanyl detection

“…The techniques highly rely on specific electrode design and lack spectral details of analytes. 11,12 Surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) is an ultra-sensitive analytical method to detect and identify trace components in forensic science. 13 Compared with the above techniques, SERS does not require complex sample pretreatment and has the advantages of nondestruction, high sensitivity, and selectivity for many analytical fields.…”

“…Electrochemical methods have also been used to detect fentanyl and fentanyl analogs. The techniques highly rely on specific electrode design and lack spectral details of analytes 11,12 …”