Key Takeaways:
– Protonitazene, a synthetic opioid, is three times more potent than fentanyl.
– The drug’s distribution resulted in a death in Los Angeles, marking a first-of-its-kind case in the United States.
– Protonitazene is sold over the internet, yet remains relatively uncommon.
– Despite its rarity, the drug poses a significant public health concern.
A Closer Look at the Potent Synthetic Opioid
In a recent case that etched a mark in history, the deadly synthetic opioid protonitazene has been thrust into the spotlight. This potent drug, three times stronger than fentanyl, has become the focal point of a groundbreaking Los Angeles County case. The case, which involved a 22-year-old victim, is the nation’s first prosecution focusing on a death caused by protonitazene.
Understanding the Nature of Protonitazene
Protonitazene can be characterized as a synthetic opioid belonging to the nitazene class of drugs. Decades ago, nitazenes were developed as an alternative to morphine, but their potent effects led to their rejection by the FDA. These drugs remain illegal, and they’re relatively affordable to produce in a laboratory. Nitazenes act by blocking pain signals in the brain, binding to opioid receptors therein, as well as in the spinal cord and elsewhere.
As a synthetic drug produced in a lab, protonitazene is designed to emulate the effects of genuine opioids. Special Agent Matthew Allen, who leads the LA division of the Drug Enforcement Administration, described its use as similar to fentanyl. “It’s used much like fentanyl, as a cutting agent in counterfeit pills. Fentanyl is still very, very prevalent, but protonitazenes and nitazenes are used in the same way.”
Is Protonitazene a Widespread Problem?
Despite being an incredibly potent synthetic opioid, protonitazene’s occurrence is significantly lower than other synthetic opioids. “We don’t really see the nitazenes out here (in Southern California),” Allen explained. Fewer than 20 seizures of protonitazene have been recorded across the United States in recent years, a fraction compared to the more than 7,888 pounds of fentanyl seized nationwide so far. Nonetheless, the DEA is keeping a watchful eye on this drug, particularly as an emerging threat to public health.
The Potentially Lethal Impact of Protonitazene
Protonitazene is lethal in even smaller amounts than fentanyl, a drug already recognized as highly dangerous for its potency. Experts refrained from giving a precise measure for a lethal dose of protonitazene, giving its extraordinary potency. Protonitazene embodies the mounting threats posed by the illicit drug market. As such, Allen advocates for individuals to only rely on doctors or pharmacists when regarding medications.
“Unless you are getting something from a doctor or pharmacist, assume it’s fake,” Allen warned. ‘There is no real OxyContin, or Percocet, or Adderall just floating around on the illicit market.’
In conclusion, protonitazene magnifies the already complex landscape of synthetic opioids. Its deadly potency and rising prevalence necessitate vigilance from numerous authorities, including law enforcement, healthcare professionals, and society as a whole. As we learn more about this deadly substance, the pressing need for improved education about the dangers of synthetic opioids only becomes more urgent.