New York, 9 February (IANS). A research scientists in the US have found that a dangerous chemical substance is present in large amounts in drugs called Phantenl sold in the market, which can be harmful to humans.
According to researchers at the University of California-Loss Angelis (UCLA), this new chemical is called BTMPS. It appeared simultaneously in the supply of drugs in many parts of the US in 2024. This study is published in Research Patrika JAMA.
During June to October 2024, the team tested samples of drugs sold as Phantanil. A high amount of chemical was found in these samples, called the “Hindard Amin Light Stabilizer”. This chemical is usually used in sealant, sticking substances and plastic.
According to UCLA Professor Chelsea Shower, BTMPS has been very rapidly involved in illegal drug supply and is expected to be mixed on a large scale. This is a matter of concern because it is not considered safe for consumption of humans. Research done on animals found that it can cause heart damage, eye problems, and taking a large amount of sudden death can also cause death.
Investigations also revealed that the volume of BTMPS was 7 times higher than Fantanil. In many cases, more than 50% of a drug was of BTMPS, while it was being sold as Phantanil.
BTMPS is no restricted chemical and experiments on mice have been found to have nicotinic receptors, but it is not traditionally not considered a drug.
It is not yet known why it is being mixed in Fantanil. Also, traditional methods used to identify it – such as toxicology, crime investigation or clinical test may not be able to catch it after death.
The full impact of BTMPS on humans is not yet clear, but scientists are expressing serious concern about it.
-IANS
AS/
