Nitazenes

Nitazenes are synthetic (man-made) opioids that copy the effect of natural opioids like heroin. These can be much more dangerous and are often illegally produced

Nitazenes can be found in a variety of forms such as pills, liquids, capsules and patches. They have specific medical purposes and are controlled substances. They can be used as anaesthesia or pain relief.

How it is used

  • Nitazenes can be injected, sniffed, swallowed, applied on the skin if a patch, or heated and inhaled
  • A higher dose of Naloxone may be needed to reverse a nitazene-overdose. Always ensure you are carrying a Naloxone kit. You can find free kits available at our services and in pharmacies

How it feels

Highs

  • Euphoric, relaxations
  • Sleepy
  • Pain relief

Lows

  • Agitation, anxiety and insomnia
  • Loss of consciousness
  • Nausea and vomiting 

Risks and the law

Risks

  • Affects your breathing and can even stop your breathing completely which is often fatal
  • Often cut with other drugs, impure which is extremely dangerous and often fatal
  • Injecting can cause damage to your skin, veins and arteries. This can lead to skin infections, abscesses, blood clots and gangrene where surgery may be needed to save your skin
  • HIV and hepatitis from needle sharing/unclean equipment

The law

  • Class A drug
  • Possession can lead to up to 7 years in prison and/or unlimited fine
  • Intent to supply can lead to life in prison and/or unlimited fine 

Staying safe

Always carry Naloxone and know the signs of an overdose:

  • Pale face
  • Pintpoint pupils
  • Blue lips and fingertips
  • Unresponsive to their name
  • Slow or erratic breathing or no breathing at all
  • Heartbeat is slow or has stopped
  • Snoring 

Protecting someone

If you know or suspect a loved one or someone you know uses nitazenes or are at risk, there are a few things you can consider:

  • Talk to them to see if they know about the harms of nitazenes. They might not be aware of the substance and its recent emergence in drug supplies across the UK.
  • Carry Naloxone and ask them to have a kit on hand. These kits are free of charge and can be collected from our services. All kits are given confidentially.
  • Share information that nitazenes should not be consumed with alcohol. This can increase the harmful effects of both substances and can increase the risk of overdose.
  • Share harm reduction advice: always reduce intake, use clean needles and syringes, and never use alone. All these tips can help reduce the harmful effects and save lives.

For more information on how to administer a naloxone kit and responding to an opioid overdose, please visit the Nyxoid website.