There’s a new drug being added to opioids bought on the street, Elizabeth Tracey reports

There’s a new drug being added to opioids bought on the street, Elizabeth Tracey reports

First came heroin, then fentanyl and its variations, followed by xylazine. Now, there's a new threat on the streets – nitazines. This episode of 'Alcohol And Drug Abuse – Johns Hopkins Medicine Podcasts' dives into the dangers of nitazines, a class of drugs that enhance the effects of opioids and pose a deadly risk. Eric Strain, a substance use disorder expert at Johns Hopkins, sheds light on this alarming trend.

He explains how nitazines, which are potent opioid agonists, are increasingly being found mixed with other drugs like heroin and fentanyl. Many users might think they're buying heroin, but they're actually getting a cocktail of dangerous substances. Strain also discusses the high addiction potential of nitazines, likening them to their notorious cousins. This episode is a stark reminder of the ever-evolving landscape of illegal drug trafficking and the continuous need for awareness and education.

If you're concerned about the latest developments in substance abuse or know someone who might be affected, this episode is a must-listen.