Story perspectives

Deadly Nitazenes Fuel Overdose Crisis, Experts Warn

9/22/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Nitazenes, synthetic opioids more potent than fentanyl, are worsening the overdose crisis.
Researchers from Vanderbilt and Pittsburgh Medical Centers emphasize their strength and detection challenges.
First synthesized in the 1950s, nitazenes are illegal Schedule I substances with no medical approval.
Tennessee recorded 92 fatal overdoses involving nitazenes from 2019 to 2023, often in combination with other drugs.
Public education on counterfeit pills and naloxone access is vital for harm reduction.

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Story summary

Nitazenes, synthetic opioids more potent than fentanyl, are worsening the overdose crisis.
Researchers from Vanderbilt and Pittsburgh Medical Centers emphasize their strength and detection challenges.
First synthesized in the 1950s, nitazenes are illegal Schedule I substances with no medical approval.
Tennessee recorded 92 fatal overdoses involving nitazenes from 2019 to 2023, often in combination with other drugs.
Public education on counterfeit pills and naloxone access is vital for harm reduction.