Nitazenes, a class of synthetic opioids, have been discovered in fake prescription medicines purchased across the UK that are supposed to contain benzodiazepines. Diazepam, an anxiety medication, is among the substances targeted. In the year preceding September 2024, more than 100 individuals submitting anonymous samples to WEDINOS, the UK’s national programme for drug-testing, confirmed they had experienced a similar issue. Nitazenes have been linked to 278 deaths in the country, the National Crime Agency (NCA) claims. The drugs can be more potent than fentanyl.
Illicit synthetic drug expert Martin Raithelhuber from the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime has stated that the BBC’s findings are a “very worrying development”. The contaminated substances were probably purchased from illicit online pharmacies but resembled those which might be distributed by high-street chemists. ”I think it’s a warning call, maybe for all other countries in Europe… that nitazenes are probably here to stay for the time being, and that their potential negative impact on the health of users is huge,” said Raithelhuber. Nitazenes are depressants, and when taken in combination with benzodiazepines, their combined impact increases the likelihood of an overdose.
The UK Government has stated that it is “securing our borders from the threat” through “world-leading intelligence, dedicated cross-government taskforce and extensive international networks”. Synthetic opioids like nitazenes are believed to be manufactured in Chinese labs and then brought into the country, through the Royal Mail and other delivery operators. Nitazene potential is now enough to classify all types of it as Class A drugs, under the Misuse of Drugs Act. If caught in their supply and production, the Misuse of Drugs Act can mean up to life in prison, while those in possession can expect up to seven years.
The groups of people more at risk are “those who have always been at the highest risk of all drug-related harm.” This group includes individuals who use drugs to manage their life circumstances, as well as those with drug use issues, according to Professor Harry Sumnall, a specialist in the substance’s use at Liverpool John Moores University. Dark web marketplaces indicate that nitazenes are sold in bulk by many of the same suppliers in China that also advertise adulterated benzodiazepines.is have been found in 29 countries
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