What are the dangers of nitazines? Elizabeth Tracey reportsWhat are the dangers of nitazines? Elizabeth Tracey reports
Alcohol And Drug Abuse – Johns Hopkins Medicine Podcasts
When someone is brought to the ED having overdosed, the clock is ticking to identify what substance they’ve used and then attempt to reverse it. Johns Hopkins substance use disorder expert Eric Strain says that’s why the new street opioid … What are t...
1:07•23 Sept 2024
The Hidden Dangers of Nitazines: A Potent New Threat
Episode Overview
- Nitazines are up to 40 times more potent than fentanyl.
- Test strips can detect nitazines but may not always be used.
- Users might unknowingly consume nitazines thinking it's heroin or fentanyl.
- Overdoses involving nitazines require significantly more naloxone.
- Awareness and better detection methods are urgently needed.
“You're going to have to give a lot more naloxone to reverse that effect”
Ever wondered about the hidden dangers lurking in street drugs? This episode dives into the alarming rise of nitazines, a potent new opioid adulterant causing concern among medical professionals. Hosted by Elizabeth Tracey, the episode features insights from Johns Hopkins Substance Use Disorder expert Eric Strain. Strain explains how nitazines, which are up to 40 times more potent than fentanyl, are complicating overdose treatments.
The challenge lies in identifying these substances quickly in emergency situations, as they often masquerade as heroin or fentanyl. Strain highlights the importance of using test strips to detect nitazines, though he notes that many users might not even realise what they're taking. This lack of awareness can lead to severe respiratory depression and requires significantly higher doses of naloxone for reversal.
The episode sheds light on the urgent need for better detection methods and awareness to combat this dangerous trend. If you're curious about how medical experts are tackling this new threat, this episode is a must-listen.
Do you want to link to this podcast?
Get the buttons here!
More From This Show
The latest episodes from the same podcast.
Related Episodes
Similar episodes from other shows in the catalogue.