Concerns Rise Over BTMPS Levels Found in Fentanyl Samples

A recent study conducted by a research team at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) has raised alarms regarding the presence of bis(2,2,6,6-tetramethyl-4-piperidyl) sebacate, commonly referred to as BTMPS, in fentanyl samples across the United States. These findings indicate that significant amounts of this industrial chemical, known for its use in various applications such as sealants and plastics, are being mixed with illicit fentanyl.

The research team analyzed samples of fentanyl sold in various locations from June to October 2024. The results showed that these samples contained alarmingly high levels of BTMPS, averaging seven times more than the fentanyl itself, with some samples indicating that BTMPS made up over 50% of the substance sold as fentanyl.

BTMPS is classified as a hindered amine light stabilizer, and its introduction into the drug supply appears to have occurred rapidly and simultaneously across multiple U.S. regions. The implications of this finding are troubling, particularly because BTMPS is not approved for human consumption. Animal studies have indicated serious health risks associated with BTMPS, such as potential cardiovascular toxicity, damage to the eyes, and even fatal outcomes at certain dosages.

Lead researcher Chelsea Shover highlighted the unusual nature of BTMPS's emergence, noting that it is more abrupt than previous shifts observed in the illicit drug market. The widespread detection of BTMPS suggests that it may be incorporated into the drug supply chain in significant quantities, raising critical questions about its purpose and the potential health risks it poses to users.

Despite its prevalence in drug samples, BTMPS is not classified as a controlled substance, and its pharmacological effects on humans remain largely unknown. Traditional forensic methods, such as toxicology screenings and clinical assessments, are unlikely to identify this compound, complicating efforts to understand its impact on health.

The UCLA research utilized testing conducted by the National Institute of Standards and Technology, with samples collected from cities including Los Angeles and Philadelphia, and residue tests from states such as Delaware, Maryland, Nevada, Washington, and Puerto Rico. This wide-ranging investigation underscores the urgent need for further research into the safety and health implications of BTMPS in the drug supply.

As the opioid crisis continues to evolve, health experts are advocating for heightened awareness and scrutiny of emerging substances like BTMPS that could endanger users. The findings from this study serve as a stark reminder of the complexities and dangers present in the illicit drug market.