Alarming increase in synthetic drugs and opioids

In Germany, there is growing concern about the increasing prevalence of synthetic drugs and synthetic opioids such as fentanyl and nitazine. Authorities, health authorities, and drug experts are warning of a new and dangerous phase of drug-related crime – with dramatic consequences for users and public health.

What does “synthetic drugs” mean and why are they dangerous?

Synthetic drugs are chemically produced substances, mostly manufactured in illegal laboratories. These include not only amphetamines, methamphetamines, and ecstasy variants, but also synthetic opioids such as fentanyl and nitazine – substances that are significantly more potent than classic drugs like heroin or morphine . Even minute amounts of these substances can cause respiratory arrest and fatal overdoses in users. drugcom.de +1

Current situation in Germany

In Germany, a clear trend is emerging:
authorities are seizing significantly more synthetic drugs , including highly potent opioids. Yahoo News UK
experts report an increasing number of emergencies and drug-related deaths linked to synthetic opioids. APOTHEKE ADHOC
reports that cooperation between various cities and addiction support organizations aims to reduce the risks – for example, through education, rapid testing, and preventative measures. Hanover

Why this development is so dangerous:

• Many consumers are unaware that their substances contain synthetic opioids. drugcom.de

• The potency of these substances can be up to hundreds of times stronger than heroin. drugcom.de

• Standard dosages of medically prescribed opioids cannot be safely transferred to the illegal market.

Opioids: Fentanyl & Co. – The new danger

Particularly worrying are substances like fentanyl and nitazene , which are increasingly appearing as additives in other drugs or being sold on their own on the black market. These substances are often offered as „research chemicals“ or as seemingly harmless tablets, without consumers ever knowing what they are actually ingesting. Yahoo News UK

How cities and aid workers are reacting

Pilot projects are being launched in several German cities, including Hanover , to enable a rapid response to the dangers:
✔️ Awareness campaigns about risks

✔️ Rapid drug tests to detect dangerous adulterants

✔️ Cooperation between rescue services, addiction support services and social institutions in Hanover

These measures are intended to prevent overdoses and save lives.

Facts everyone should know

✅ Synthetic opioids like fentanyl and nitazene are extremely potent and often fatal when incorrectly dosed. drugcom.de
✅ Many users are unaware of the substances they are consuming. Yahoo News UK
✅ Numerous projects are working on prevention and emergency management. Hanover