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Experts Warn: Nitazenes Surge Raises Overdose Deaths

9/19/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Experts warn that nitazenes, synthetic opioids 20-43 times stronger than fentanyl, pose a significant overdose risk.
Developed in the 1950s, nitazenes were never approved for use due to their high potency.
Counterfeit pills increasingly contain nitazenes, often consumed unknowingly by users.
The DEA reports 92 nitazene-related overdose deaths in Tennessee from 2019-2023.
Public health officials emphasize the need for education and access to naloxone for at-risk individuals.

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Story summary

Experts warn that nitazenes, synthetic opioids 20-43 times stronger than fentanyl, pose a significant overdose risk.
Developed in the 1950s, nitazenes were never approved for use due to their high potency.
Counterfeit pills increasingly contain nitazenes, often consumed unknowingly by users.
The DEA reports 92 nitazene-related overdose deaths in Tennessee from 2019-2023.
Public health officials emphasize the need for education and access to naloxone for at-risk individuals.