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What are nitazene opioids?
Nitazene opioids are a new class of synthetic drugs that have recently emerged in the European market. They are often mis-sold as other opioids, such as oxycodone, leading to severe health risks and fatalities. Their potency and the lack of regulation make them particularly dangerous.
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Why are nitazene opioids dangerous?
Nitazene opioids are dangerous due to their high potency, which can lead to overdose and death. Reports indicate that drug-induced deaths in Europe rose from 7,100 in 2022 to 7,500 in 2023, highlighting the severe risks associated with these substances.
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How is Europe responding to the rise in synthetic opioid deaths?
In response to the increasing deaths linked to nitazene opioids, European authorities are calling for enhanced drug testing and law enforcement measures. The Home Office has emphasized the importance of prevention strategies, including making naloxone more widely available to counteract overdoses.
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What measures are being proposed to combat this crisis?
Proposed measures to combat the crisis include increased drug testing at venues, public awareness campaigns about the dangers of synthetic opioids, and improved access to naloxone, a medication that can reverse opioid overdoses. These strategies aim to reduce the number of fatalities linked to these potent drugs.
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What role does cocaine use play in this public health crisis?
The rise in cocaine use in Europe is compounding the public health crisis associated with synthetic opioids. As cocaine use increases, it creates a more complex landscape of drug-related health issues, necessitating comprehensive strategies to address both cocaine and opioid-related risks.