The Rising Threat of Nitazenes Joins Fentanyl in Canada’s Opioid Crisis
The latest findings in Canada’s battle against the opioid crisis highlight the emergence of a class of drugs known as nitazenes, only complicating an already distressing situation. This article written by Bobby Hristova offers an in-depth look at the new factor in the opioid crisis and the urgent actions required to address this spiraling issue.
The New Threat: Nitazenes
Nitazenes are the new potent substances infiltrating the Canadian drug market. While some may recognize nitazenes as muscle relaxants and sedatives, others utilize them illegally, for non-medical recreational consumption. Alarmingly, the presence of nitazenes has grown from 0.8% in Ontario in 2019 to 4.7% by 2021 according to a report prepared by Health Canada.
The complication of nitazenes is that they are often mixed with fentanyl, a commonly abused opioid. The mixture can be deadly, as nitazenes, fentanyl, or the combination of both can lead to an overdose or a lethal reaction.
Impact of the Opioid Crisis
The opioid crisis has impacted not only individuals suffering from addiction but also communities at large, including the Quebec homeless population that appears to be the hardest hit. The escalation of crime rates, surge in the number of drug overdoses, and the resultant strain on healthcare systems are some of the broader effects this crisis has trickled down into communities.
Some key points highlighting these impacts include:
- Community safety is threatened by increased drug-related crimes. Criminal justice systems are overburdened with these ongoing offenses.
- The rise in overdose cases has resulted in heavier demands on emergency medical services, hospital admissions, and mental health services.
- The crisis affects families and communities through the loss of productive individuals, violating the social fabric.
Combatting the Opioid Crisis
The Canadian government, in conjunction with various entities, has taken several steps to address the opioid crisis. These include public education initiatives, raising awareness of the dangers associated with the misuse of opioids, and the establishment of the Canadian opioid abatement class action.
However, to completely address the crisis, considering the emergence of nitazenes, the efforts and collaboration need to extend beyond just the government and include professionals in the medical field, researchers, educators, and the community-at-large.
Role of Naloxone in Overdose Prevention
Naloxone, a medication used to block the effects of opioids, particularly in overdose situations, has a substantial role to play. The distribution and wider availability of naloxone is pivotal choosing between life and death in cases of opioid overdose. Simultaneously, efforts are needed to raise awareness about the existence and use of naloxone within at-risk communities and amongst healthcare providers.
Time to Act
The opioid crisis calls for immediate communal, medical, and political intervention. The new threat of nitazenes only intensifies the urgency of the matter. In order to tackle today’s opioid crisis, a comprehensive approach relying on prevention, education, intervention, and policy change is required.
Conclusion
Canada’s commitment to its citizens is being tested amid this devastating opioid crisis, which is now complicated by the rising threat of nitazenes. The consequences reach far beyond individual health implications. They devastate families, burden healthcare systems, and disrupt the social fabric of communities. Despite these significant challenges, the progress made in policies, such as the establishment of the Canadian opioid abatement class action, and the increased distribution of naloxone, pave the way within a comprehensive response strategy. As we navigate this complicated terrain, all elements of our society must come together to turn the tide on the opioid crisis.
