According to the CDC, over 150 Americans die every day due to overdosing on synthetic opioids such as fentanyl. The federal government, as well as many state and local governments, have declared the ongoing injuries and fatalities as a result of fentanyl addiction to be public health emergencies. But one new potential solution for the opioid crisis may be a simple one: a vaccine.
Researchers at the University of Houston have developed a vaccine that causes the body to produce antibodies against fentanyl, preventing the drug from entering the brain and stopping any euphoric effects. Additionally, it didn’t show any cross-reactions against other less potent opioids, such as morphine, leaving that option open for pain relief treatment. The vaccine was tested on mice, and the researchers are now engaged in developing clinical grade versions for potential human trials.