Why Do Drug Users Seem to Lean But Never Fall? Discover the "Fentanyl Fold"
Ever seen someone frozen in a bent-over position? Discover the shocking truth behind the 'fentanyl fold' and its implications on drug use.
Have you ever seen someone seemingly frozen in a bent-over position and wondered what was going on? This rather peculiar posture is often referred to as the "fentanyl fold." But why does it happen?
The Science Behind the Stance
It turns out that this odd stance is most commonly associated with the use of drugs like fentanyl and heroin. Fentanyl, for instance, is a synthetic opioid that is up to 50 times more potent than heroin and 100 times more potent than morphine. It can hit fast and hard, causing someone to become drowsy and lose some control over their body.
So, if lying down might cause the user to fall asleep and miss out on their high, standing—or rather, leaning—offers a crude sort of safety. The idea is that they'll wake up if they doze off and start falling.
Heroin, derived from the opium poppy, shares many of these effects, providing a euphoric high that users don't want to interrupt by reclining too much.
More Than Just Fentanyl
Another drug linked to this phenomenon is xylazine. Used in veterinary medicine as a sedative, xylazine is sometimes mixed with fentanyl or heroin, colloquially known in some circles as the "zombie drug." It adds to the blend by causing intense muscle relaxation, contributing to the ensuing dramatic posture.
A Grim Reflection
Some observers note that this spectacle—often witnessed on the streets or on public transit—looks like a scene from a dystopian world. It's a stark reminder of how substance abuse can visually manifest in daily life. If nothing else, it puts into perspective the ongoing crisis where potent substances like fentanyl contribute heavily to overdose deaths.
Fortunately, carrying something like Narcan, which can temporarily reverse the effects of an opioid overdose, offers a way for average citizens to help save lives.
An easy way to help combat this is through awareness and preparation. Learn more about these issues and consider stepping in when you can to make a life-saving difference.
