Stronger Than Fentanyl, Isotonitazene Hits The Streets
Isotonitazene, also known as nitazene or “ISO,” is a synthetic opioid that has caught the attention of the DEA as it spreads into new regions. Initially detected in the Midwest around 2019, this hazardous substance has now infiltrated the Southern states and, more recently, along the Eastern seaboard. Its potency far exceeds that of heroin and morphine, bearing similarities to the deadly fentanyl.
To maximize profits and effectiveness, dealers are incorporating ISO into other drugs, presenting them as more potent and cost-effective options. This alarming trend poses a significant concern as unsuspecting users may unknowingly consume this dangerous drug, resulting in fatal overdoses.
The rise of Isotonitazene is a growing public health issue, and authorities are closely monitoring its distribution and usage to prevent further harm to individuals and communities. The priority is to raise awareness about its dangers and implement measures to combat its spread and protect vulnerable individuals from falling victim to its deadly effects.
In its powdered form, Isotonitazene (ISO) can take on various colors, including yellow, brown, or off-white. DEA regional forensic laboratories have observed the troubling trend of ISO being mixed into heroin and/or fentanyl, masquerading as common street drugs, leading to fatal consequences. Additionally, in different parts of the country, ISO has been found pressed into counterfeit pills and falsely advertised as pharmaceutical medications, such as fake Dilaudid “M-8” tablets and oxycodone “M30” tablets.
The high potency of ISO significantly increases the risk of overdose, presenting a major challenge that the DEA Washington Division is actively addressing. Tragically, provisional CDC data for 2021 revealed that drug overdose deaths in the United States reached a record high, with nearly 108,000 individuals losing their lives. Alarmingly, over 75% of these deaths involved synthetic opioids.
A distressing aspect of these incidents is that many overdose victims are unaware that they are consuming these perilous and extremely potent drugs. Identifying synthetic opioids like ISO can only be done accurately through a laboratory test, leaving individuals unknowingly exposed to these dangerous substances until it’s too late.
The situation calls for urgent action to combat the proliferation of ISO and other synthetic opioids, raise awareness about their presence in the illicit drug market, and equip law enforcement and healthcare professionals with the tools and information needed to identify and address this deadly threat effectively. Preventing further tragedies requires a coordinated effort to curb the supply and demand for these dangerous substances and provide better support and treatment options for those struggling with addiction.
“We want to get this information out and warn people,” emphasizes Jarod Forget, Special Agent in Charge of the DEA Washington Division. “By educating and informing our communities about the perils of consuming counterfeit prescription pills or other drugs, we can impede the spread of these lethal opioids, halt these senseless deaths, and safeguard our neighbors and loved ones.”
Currently, reports of nitazene are relatively low, particularly when compared to fentanyl. Nevertheless, officials stress that this emerging drug demands vigilance and close monitoring.
“People must remember that with the abundance of synthetic drugs available and the way they are being combined, there’s no certainty about what you are actually purchasing,” cautions DEA Intelligence Analyst Maura Gaffney. It is crucial to only take medications prescribed by a licensed doctor and dispensed by a qualified pharmacist, as drugs obtained from other sources are unsafe and frequently fatal.
The joint effort to disseminate crucial information about the dangers posed by ISO and other synthetic opioids is essential. Awareness can aid in thwarting their spread, preventing tragedies, and fostering a safer environment for everyone in our communities. By staying vigilant and informed, we can collectively combat this growing threat and protect lives.
