More than 100 deaths have now been linked to synthetic opioids called Nitazenes since the summer, according to the National Crime Agency.
The drugs are stronger than heroin and fentanyl,
The National Crime Agency (NCA) believes Nitazenes are produced in illicit labs in China and brought into the UK through the Royal Mail and other parcel operators.
Most recent figures Feb 2024 put the death toll linked to Nitazenes across the UK at 101 people 76 of them in England. At least a further 49 cases await further testing. https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-68479491
Nitazenes can be at least as strong as fentanyl and can be hundreds of times more potent than heroin. They are known to have led to accidental overdoses and deaths of people in several areas across the UK in the last few weeks. In the UK, they are mostly mixed with heroin.
The vast majority of people taking drugs do not expect to die from an overdose.
Considering new information around contaminated drugs, the way you use drugs might need to change to avoid overdose:
- Mixing different drugs is common, but it is more likely to cause an overdose. Try to use one at a time. If you are going to mix drugs, use less of each.
- Try not to use drugs alone, and don’t let your mates use them alone either. Watch out for signs of overdose in your friends. The signs include difficulty breathing, blue colouring to the lips or fingertips, unresponsiveness, and limp limbs.
- Always carry Naloxone. It’s available from all treatment providers. If someone overdoses, give naloxone to them and call an ambulance.
- Naloxone only works on opioids. However, if you suspect someone has overdosed give them naloxone even if you’re not sure they have taken an opioid. It will not harm your friend.
- If you use opioids every day your local drug treatment service can support, you and prescribe alternatives such as methadone and buprenorphine. Even if abstinence isn’t your goal these alternatives can help keep you safe. You will know what you are taking, and your risk of overdose may be reduced.
- If you are already in treatment for opioid dependence and you don’t want to use on top, speak to your worker and make sure you’re getting the right dose.
