Pharmaceutical Profiling of Fentanyl Use in Portugal: Consumption Patterns and Abuse Deterrence Gaps

Fentanyl, a potent synthetic opioid used in pain management, has seen a marked rise in outpatient use in Portugal between 2015 and 2022. During this period, consumption nearly doubled, with transdermal patches and sublingual tablets dominating the market. Rapid-onset formulations lacking abuse-deterrent features pose have heightened the risks of misuse and diversion. Despite these concerns, no abuse-deterrent fentanyl products are currently available in Portugal. These findings expose critical regulatory and pharmaceutical gaps. To mitigate public health and environmental risks, a coordinated strategy—encompassing prescription monitoring, education, safer formulations, and a One Health approach—is urgently needed to ensure responsible opioid use and stewardship.