DEA Warns of Nitazene: A Synthetic Opioid More Potent Than Fentanyl in New York

The Emergence of Nitazene

• ⚠️ Nitazene is a new, powerful synthetic opioid that has entered New York's drug supply, posing a significant threat.
• ⚡ It is described as being 20 to 40% more powerful than fentanyl.
• 💡 Developed in the 1950s as a painkiller, Nitazene was never approved for market due to its extreme intensity and high overdose risk.

Lethal Doses and Forms

• 🎯 A lethal dose of fentanyl is typically 2 milligrams (10-20 grains of salt), while Nitazene can be lethal in one grain or less.
• 💊 The DEA has seized Nitazene in counterfeit pills, including fake Xanax, Adderall, and M30 pills.
• 📱 This dangerous substance is being sold on social media, targeting adults and even young teenagers.

Impact and Prevention

• 💔 Sharon Valente shared the tragic story of losing her son Vincent to a fentanyl overdose, emphasizing the need for education and awareness.
• 💬 Her recommendation is to educate yourself and never assume "it won't happen to us."

Naloxone and Prescription Safety

• 💉 Dr. Chinazo Cunningham, Commissioner of the New York State Office of Addiction Services and Supports, stated that Naloxone (Narcan) blocks opioids.
• ⚠️ Due to Nitazene's potency, multiple doses of Naloxone might be required to counteract an overdose.
• 📦 New York State offers free Naloxone that can be shipped to individuals within a week.
• 🩺 The DEA advises obtaining prescriptions only from a trusted family doctor and filling them at a licensed pharmacy to avoid counterfeit medications.