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This article discusses the rise in deaths related to nitazenes, a potent class of synthetic opioids, in the UK. Key points include:
– Families, like Nicola’s, receive post-mortem reports indicating nitazene presence as a cause of death, often without prior knowledge of the substance.
– The UK is experiencing a higher rate of nitazene-related deaths compared to other European countries and even Canada, according to experts.
– Data analyzed covers 286 inquests up to March 2025, but records are incomplete due to reporting delays and uneven coroner participation.
– Most victims are marginalized individuals: predominantly men aged 17-66 (many in their 40s), often lacking stable housing, living in deprived areas, with high unemployment and mental health issues.
– The opioid antidote naloxone, vital in reversing overdoses, was only found in about one in seven cases, partly because some hostels and NHS mental health services are currently not authorized to distribute naloxone kits.
– Personal stories underscore the human impact, such as Joe, who struggled with schizophrenia and substance use disorder and died from a nitazene-adulterated heroin overdose.
– There is ongoing governmental consultation to expand naloxone access in the UK, a move supported by healthcare workers and charities.
– Outreach efforts, like those by nurse Sue McCutcheon in Sandwell, aim to proactively reach people who use drugs and may not engage with traditional health services, providing naloxone and treatment.
If you’d like, I can help summarize specific sections, explain what nitazenes are, or discuss naloxone’s role in overdose prevention
Read the full article from The BBC here: Read More
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