Why is the inclusion of fentanyl in heroin particularly dangerous?

The inclusion of fentanyl in heroin is particularly dangerous because it may lead to unintentional overdose. Fentanyl is a powerful synthetic opioid that is significantly stronger than heroin, and its potency can easily result in doses that exceed what a user can handle. Many individuals who use heroin may not be aware that it is laced with fentanyl, which means they cannot accurately gauge how much of the drug they are consuming. This lack of awareness can lead to taking a lethal amount unknowingly, resulting in a higher risk of overdose, respiratory failure, and death. The unpredictable nature of fentanyl's presence in heroin exacerbates the risks associated with opioid use, making it a critical public health concern.