A type of synthetic opioid, nitazenes are man-made drugs that work in the body similarly to natural opioids like morphine. Much stronger than other opioids, their potency makes them very dangerous. Even small amounts of nitazenes can lead to serious health issues, including overdose. Because they are not regulated like prescription medications, nitazenes are often found in illegal drug markets, which increases the danger because their strength and purity are uncertain.
What are Nitazenes?
First developed in the 1950s as part of research into pain-relief medications, nitazenes were never approved as medicines because of their potency. Since 2019, these synthetic opioids have resurfaced in the United States, United Kingdom, and other countries. Nitazenes work similarly to other opioids by binding to receptors in the brain, resulting in pain relief, feelings of euphoria, and drowsiness. Nitazenes cross the blood-brain barrier quickly, resulting in almost immediate effects. This rapid onset is part of what makes them so dangerous, as users can rapidly experience life-threatening symptoms. Like heroin and morphine, nitazenes suppress the respiratory system. However, respiratory depression that can result in death occurs with much lower doses of nitazenes.
The Impact of Nitazenes on the Body
Short-term effects of nitazenes include shortness of breath, drowsiness, and nausea. Users may also experience a slowed heart rate and lowered blood pressure, both of which can be dangerous if not properly managed.
Over extended periods, repeated use of Nitazenes can result in a buildup of tolerance, requiring users to consume more of the drug to achieve the same effects. This increase in dosage heightens the risk of overdose.
Long-term users may develop severe respiratory problems, as chronic opioid use can impair the body’s ability to regulate breathing. Cognitive functions may also be affected, leading to problems with memory, attention, and decision-making. Mental health can also deteriorate significantly with prolonged use. Conditions such as anxiety, depression, and mood swings may be exacerbated.
The physical dependence on nitazenes can result in challenging withdrawal symptoms when usage is reduced or stopped. These symptoms can range from muscle pain and sweating to intense cravings, irritability, and severe discomfort. The withdrawal process can be so difficult that many users relapse, continuing the cycle of abuse.
Nine Important Facts About Nitazenes
- Depending on the specific chemical formula used, some nitazenes are 40 times more potent than fentanyl and 800 times more powerful than morphine.
- Nitazenes can be made into powder, pill, spray, and liquid forms.
- The methods of ingesting nitazenes include intravenously, orally, sublingually, intranasally, and inhalation (vaping).
- Illegal street drugs can be laced with nitazenes and taken by an individual without their knowledge.
- Nitazenes have been found in synthetic cannabis (spice), ketamine, cocaine, and counterfeit medicines, such as oxycodone and benzodiazepines.
- If nitazenes are in an illegal drug product, they are not detectable even with the use of fentanyl test strips or any other drug detection device.
- As the demand for nitazenes increases in the illicit drug market, illegal manufacturers continue to synthesize new types of the drug that are chemically distinct. There are at least 13 types of nitazenes currently identified, and the most common type is isonitazene (ISO).
- Since 2019, 4,300 law enforcement drug seizures have included nitazenes.
- Nitazines are known by other names, including Frankenstein opioids, benzimidazole-opioids, blank-azene, and nitazenes analogs.
You Are Not Alone
Substance addiction is a treatable, chronic disease that can affect anyone. If you or someone you care about is struggling with a drug or alcohol addiction, you are not alone. At English Mountain Recovery, located in the beautiful, peaceful mountains of Eastern Tennessee, our dedicated professionals are ready to help. They will provide you with the skills and resources needed to reclaim control of your life. Reach out to us today.
