In the ongoing opioid crisis, new synthetic drugs continue to emerge. One of the latest threats is nitazenes, a group of opioids far stronger than fentanyl. While many people have never heard the name, nitazenes are already appearing in street drug supplies across the United States. At Phoenix Rising Recovery, we want our community to understand what nitazenes are, how they affect the body, and the steps you can take to stay safer.
What Are Nitazenes?
- Synthetic opioids were first developed in the 1950s as potential painkillers but were never approved for medical use.
- Variants include isotonitazene, etonitazene, and protonitazene.
- In lab tests, some nitazenes have been found to be several times stronger than fentanyl [1].
How People Encounter Nitazenes
| Source | Details |
| Counterfeit Pills | Fake “oxycodone” or “Xanax” tablets often laced with Nitazenes |
| Powdered Drugs | Heroin or fentanyl supplies may be spiked |
| Online Markets | Sold under different names or mislabeled as safer alternatives |
Health Risks of Nitazenes
- Extreme overdose risk: Even tiny amounts can be fatal.
- Hard to detect: Standard drug tests often miss nitazenes.
- Naloxone limits: While naloxone can reverse overdoses, nitazenes may require larger or multiple doses.
- Severe withdrawal: Dependence develops quickly due to potency.
Signs of Nitazene Overdose
| Symptom | Why It Happens |
| Slow or stopped breathing | Opioid receptor suppression in the brain |
| Blue lips or fingertips | Lack of oxygen |
| Unconsciousness | Central nervous system depression |
| Tiny pupils | Classic opioid overdose sign |
Prevention and Safety
- Carry naloxone and know how to use it.
- Avoid pills or powders not prescribed by a licensed doctor.
- Educate loved ones on overdose signs.
- Seek professional treatment if struggling with opioid use.
Phoenix Rising Recovery in Palm Springs, CA, Can Help
Nitazenes represent one of the most dangerous developments in the opioid crisis. Even small amounts can be deadly, and their presence in counterfeit drugs makes them hard to avoid. If you or a loved one may be exposed, don’t wait until it’s too late. Phoenix Rising Recovery is here with compassionate, evidence-based treatment for opioid addiction and recovery.
FAQs About Nitazenes
Are nitazenes legal?
Most nitazenes are classified as controlled substances, though some may not yet be scheduled. This gray area makes regulation difficult.
How do nitazenes compare to fentanyl?
Many nitazenes are stronger than fentanyl, making them even more dangerous.
Can treatment centers help with nitazene addiction?
Yes. The same evidence-based treatments used for other opioids, such as Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) and behavioral therapies, can support recovery.
Conclusion
Nitazenes represent one of the most dangerous developments in the opioid crisis. Even small amounts can be deadly, and their presence in counterfeit drugs makes them hard to avoid. If you or a loved one may be exposed, don’t wait until it’s too late. Phoenix Rising Recovery is here with compassionate, evidence-based treatment for opioid addiction and recovery.
Sources
- U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration. (2022). Nitazenes: Emerging synthetic opioids. Retrieved from https://www.dea.gov/
- National Institute on Drug Abuse. (2023). Synthetic opioids and overdose deaths. Retrieved from https://nida.nih.gov/
- United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime. (2021). Designer opioids report. Retrieved from https://www.unodc.org/