Inhaling fentanyl, a synthetic opioid approved by the US FDA for pain relief and anesthesia, can lead to irreversible brain damage, according to a study published in BMJ Case Reports. The study highlights the potential risks associated with fentanyl use, which is known to be 50 times more potent than heroin and widely available at a low cost. Doctors warn that fentanyl inhalation can cause toxic leukoencephalopathy, leading to inflammation and damage to the brain’s white matter. Such damage can result in unconsciousness and potentially irreversible loss of brain function. The study emphasizes the importance of understanding the severe consequences of fentanyl misuse and the need for appropriate precautions and treatment measures.