The opioid epidemic has cast a long shadow over communities worldwide, leading to a surge in addiction and fatalities. Among the lesser-known yet emerging threats in this crisis are nitazenes, a class of potent non-fentanyl opioids called ‘Iso’ on the streets.
Opioids are a class of drugs known for their pain-relieving properties but notorious for their high potential for addiction and overdose. The current opioid crisis, fueled by prescription misuse and illicit drug trade, has led to an alarming rise in addiction and deaths. According to date from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), more than 107,000 people in the United States died from drug overdoses in 2021, with over 75% of those deaths involving synthetic opioids. This grim statistic highlights the need for continued education, prevention, and treatment efforts to combat this epidemic. Among the most commonly abused opiates include:
If you or a loved one is struggling with synthetic opioid addiction, including nitazenes or fentanyl, Porch Light Health is here to help. Contact us today to learn more about our network of addiction treatment clinics in New Mexico and Colorado.
Nitazenes, a class of synthetic opioids, were initially developed in the 1950s as potential painkillers. Their development was part of a broader effort to create effective pain management solutions. They ultimately did not gain mainstream medical adoption over time, largely due to their high potency and associated risks. In recent years, Nitazenes have resurfaced, not as therapeutic agents but as a new and emerging threat in the realm of substance abuse. Today, illicit drug manufacturers most commonly produce Nitazenes in powder form or as a solution, which can then be administered in various ways, such as by injection or snorting.
Unlike traditional opioids, Nitazenes possess a unique chemical structure that endows them with an exceptionally high level of potency. This potency often surpasses that of fentanyl, already known as one of the most potent opioids available and a leading cause of opioid-related deaths. The distinct chemical composition of Nitazenes allows them to bind more effectively to the opioid receptors in the human brain. This strong relationship results in a more intense and prolonged euphoric effect, making Nitazenes particularly dangerous and addictive.
The recent increase in the production and distribution of Nitazenes in the illicit drug market is believed to be partly a response to stricter regulations on the chemicals to make fentanyl and its analogs. As a result, illicit drug manufacturers have turned to nitazenes, which are from a different chemical class and can be synthesized using different precursors not yet regulated as stringently as fentanyl. Nitazenes include compounds like isotonitazene and etazene, which are more potent than fentanyl, further escalating the opioid crisis. This shift in the illegal drug market reflects an adaptation to the changing legal and regulatory landscape, with chemists seeking alternative substances that are potent and easier to produce under current regulations.
Nitazenes exhibit a range of potent effects that make them particularly hazardous. The primary effect of nitazenes, like other opioids, is intense euphoria. This sensation is the result of the drug’s interaction with the brain’s opioid receptors, which triggers a release of dopamine, leading to feelings of pleasure and relaxation. However, this euphoria comes with a dangerous trade-off.
As mentioned previously, the impact of nitazenes can be far more severe than that of many other opioids, including fentanyl, which is already known for its extreme potency. One of the most dangerous effects of nitazenes is severe respiratory depression. This condition occurs when the drug depresses the brain’s ability to regulate breathing, potentially leading to life-threatening situations or even death. Respiratory depression is a common cause of death in opioid overdoses, and the risk is significantly higher with substances as potent as nitazenes.
Additionally, nitazenes can cause a range of other adverse effects. These may include:
Due to their high potency, the risk of experiencing these effects is elevated, even at low doses. This makes the margin for error, in terms of dosage, extremely narrow and increases the likelihood of accidental overdoses.
Nitazenes pose profound and multifaceted risks, primarily due to their profound impact on users, both physically and psychologically. Some of the risks associated with nitazenes include:
If you or a loved one is struggling with substance use, contact Porch Light Health today. Find treatment and recovery in our clinic network of more than 60 care points across Colorado and New Mexico.
Nitazenes are not typically identified in routine drug screenings, which are more geared toward detecting common substances like heroin, cocaine, and prescription opioids. This gap in detection can have far-reaching consequences:
The inability to detect nitazenes in standard drug tests is a growing concern, particularly given the rising use of these synthetic opioids. As the substance abuse landscape evolves, we can likely prepare for further adjustments in our approaches to detection and intervention.
Addressing opioid addiction requires a comprehensive and compassionate approach, something the team at Porch Light Health deeply understands. Our experienced team of professionals specializes in innovative treatment methods, embracing telehealth for addiction treatment and medical mobile sites to ensure that everyone, regardless of location, can access life-saving treatment and medications to find a life of healing in long-term recovery.
If you or a loved one is struggling with opioid addiction, Porch Light Health can help. Contact us today to learn more about our opioid addiction treatment programs, including Medications for Addiction Treatment (MAT). Begin your journey toward a healthier, more fulfilling life.
