#160 NITAZENE ALERT: The Emerging Threat of an Ultra-Potent Opioid
In this detailed exploration, we delve into the alarming rise of Nitazene, a synthetic opioid significantly more potent than fentanyl. This video sheds light on the historical background, current impact, and the challenges posed by Nitazene in North America. We examine its interaction with other substances, its role in the increasing rates of opioid overdoses, and discuss the essential strategies needed for harm reduction and public health response. Join us as we uncover the complexities of this potent drug and its implications for addiction medicine and community safety.Table of Contents: 0:21 Introduction to Nitazene - The new, potent threat in the opioid crisis, its history, and why it’s known as “Frankenstein” among street names. 1:10 Historical Context and Resurgence - How Nitazene was developed, why it was never commercialized, and its recent detection in the drug market. 2:02 Current Impact and Public Health Response - Analyzing the surge in overdose deaths linked to Nitazene and the necessary public health strategies. 3:03 Medical Risks and Drug Interactions - The dangers of Nitazene when combined with other central nervous system depressants. 4:38 Challenges in Drug Detection and Response - The difficulties in detecting Nitazene in standard drug tests and the need for enhanced medical responses. 5:38 Strategies for Mitigation and Awareness - Discussing harm reduction, education, and community efforts to combat the spread of this dangerous opioid.Originally developed in the 1950s, Nitazene was never approved for medical use due to its extreme potency and associated risks. Decades later, these compounds have resurfaced in the illicit drug market, often mixed with other substances, increasing the danger they pose. This resurgence is especially concerning given the spike in overdose deaths in regions like Ontario and British Columbia, as well as in the U.S., particularly Philadelphia.This video explores the dual nature of opioids—beneficial under medical supervision but devastatingly dangerous when misused, especially in the form of black market products like Nitazene. It also highlights the critical interactions between Nitazene and central nervous system depressants, which can lead to severe, often fatal, respiratory depression.As the opioid crisis evolves, so does the complexity of the drug supply, introducing unpredictable risks with new synthetic opioids. This situation challenges first responders and addiction specialists who face the daunting task of combating these emerging threats. Our discussion extends to the effectiveness of naloxone, once considered a universal antidote, which now struggles against stronger opioids like Nitazene.The video concludes with a call to action for robust public health strategies, expanded research, and comprehensive community education to manage and mitigate the dangers posed by synthetic opioids. It underscores the need for a multifaceted response to a crisis that continues to evolve, testing the resilience and adaptability of our healthcare systems.References:1. Everything you need to know about nitazenes - The Pharmaceutical Journal (https://pharmaceutical-journal.com)2. Nitazenes: The New Fentanyl? | Poison Control (https://www.poison.org/articles/nitazenes-the-new-fentanyl-213)Featuring addiction psychiatrist Dr. Wiplove (Wip) Lamba, addictions case manager and former addict Jean-Paul (JP) Michael, along with their guests discuss all things related to substance use, addiction, addiction medicine, psychotherapy, harm reduction, treatment and recovery. Wip and JP share their motivation, curiosity, and passion for their craft. JP works on a daily basis in a renown inner city hospital in Canada's largest city. This work is separate from Wiplove’s clinical and academic work.
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