Tinuvin 770 is not a drug in the traditional sense, but rather a chemical substance primarily used as a light stabilizer in plastics that has recently been identified as an adulterant in the recreational opioid supply, often found alongside fentanyl.
Identity and Chemical Name
Tinuvin 770 is a specific designation for a chemical compound also widely known as BTMPS. Its full chemical name is bis(2,2,6,6-tetramethyl-4-piperidyl)sebacate. These names all refer to the same substance, highlighting its complex chemical structure.
Original Purpose and Industrial Use
Originally, Tinuvin 770 (BTMPS) was developed and evaluated for its utility in industrial applications. Its primary function is as a light stabilizer. This means it is used to prevent degradation of materials, particularly plastics, when exposed to ultraviolet (UV) light. By absorbing or scattering UV radiation, it helps maintain the integrity, color, and physical properties of plastic products over time.
Emergence as an Adulterant
In a concerning development, Tinuvin 770 has recently begun to appear in the recreational opioid supply. It is present as an adulterant, meaning it is mixed with or added to other substances without the knowledge or consent of the user. Most notably, it has been identified alongside fentanyl, a potent synthetic opioid.
The presence of adulterants like Tinuvin 770 in unregulated drug supplies poses significant risks, as users may be unaware of what they are consuming, leading to unpredictable effects and potential health hazards.
Key Facts About Tinuvin 770
To summarize its various aspects, here are the key facts regarding Tinuvin 770:
| Aspect | Description |
|---|---|
| Common Names | Tinuvin 770, BTMPS |
| Full Chemical Name | bis(2,2,6,6-tetramethyl-4-piperidyl)sebacate |
| Primary Industrial Use | Light stabilizer; initially evaluated for use in plastic materials to prevent UV degradation. |
| Recent Classification | Adulterant in the recreational opioid supply. |
| Context of Detection | Frequently found alongside the potent synthetic opioid, fentanyl. |
| Significance | One of the latest substances identified as an unexpected additive in illicit drug markets, contributing to the complexity and danger of the unregulated supply. |
