Synthetic opioids may sound like something out of a medical textbook, but their relevance in today’s world is deeply significant. These laboratory-made substances mimic the effects of natural opioids, such as morphine and codeine. However, their potency and the risks they carry have raised alarm bells globally.

This article explores synthetic opioids, shedding light on their origin, uses, effects, and the dangers they pose. It also reflects the importance of informed decision-making and community awareness to mitigate their harmful impact.

What Are Synthetic Opioids?

Synthetic opioids are man-made substances designed to act on the same parts of the brain as natural opioids. They are primarily created for medical use, offering pain relief similar to natural options like morphine. While some, like fentanyl, methadone, and buprenorphine, are approved for medical applications, there’s a darker aspect to synthetic opioids when they’re produced and distributed illicitly.

Since their emergence in the late 1970s, clandestinely manufactured synthetic opioids have overwhelmed markets, particularly on the West Coast of the United States. By 2013, this trend reappeared with new variations of fentanyl-like substances entering the illegal drug trade. These substances, including acetyl fentanyl and benzimidazole-opioids (often known as nitazenes), have proven to be highly potent and dangerous.

What Do They Look Like?

Illicit synthetic opioids can appear in various forms, often intended to mimic pharmaceutical medications or illegal substances like heroin. Powders, tablets, glassine bags, and even bottle caps have been identified in law enforcement seizures. These substances are frequently mixed with other opioids or additives, further increasing their risks due to unpredictable purity and potency levels.

The rising presence of benzimidazole-opioids, seen from 2019, exemplifies this. Without approved medical uses, these substances are obtained through unregulated sources, posing severe health risks due to their uncertain composition.

Where Do They Come From?

The majorities s are synthesised abroad and imported to target markets, such as the United States. The illegal production and trafficking of these substances contribute to their widespread availability and misuse.

How Are They Used?

The use of synthetic opioids mirrors that of heroin and prescription painkillers. Users either inject, snort, or swallow these substances, often unaware of the exact dosage or composition. Many synthetic opioids are more powerful than morphine or heroin, putting users at an increased risk of overdose with even minimal exposure.

Effects of Synthetic Opioids

Synthetic opioids produce similar effects to natural opioids. These include relief from pain, relaxation, and feelings of euphoria. However, the downsides include confusion, sedation, nausea, dizziness, and respiratory depression.

Overdose Effects

The effects of overdose are equally grim. Symptoms include stupor, pinpoint pupils, cold and clammy skin, and respiratory failure. Without timely medical intervention, such overdoses can lead to death. The combination of high potency and unpredictable dosages makes synthetic opioids particularly lethal.

Emerging Threats from Benzimidazole-Opioids

Since 2019, benzimidazole-opioids (commonly called nitazenes) have created further complications in the crisis. Initially developed without medical approval, their widespread misuse has resulted in numerous adverse events and deaths. These opioids are most frequently used by populations already exposed to prescription opioids or heroin, further compounding their health risks.

One significant issue with benzimidazole-opioids is the lack of regulation. Users obtaining these substances through illegal channels have no way to assess their purity or potency. This uncertainty drastically increases the chances of fatal overdoses.

What Is Their Legal Status in the UK and the US?

Synthetic opioids are strictly regulated under law. For example, fentanyl-related substances are classified as Schedule I drugs in the US, indicating a high potential for abuse without medical benefits. Similarly, in the UK, fentanyl variants and other synthetic opioids fall under Misuse of Drugs legislation. However, challenges persist in controlling newer, rapidly evolving substances like nitazenes.

Authorities continue to pursue legal methods to curb production, trafficking, and usage by including synthetic analogues under existing drug laws.

How Do They Compare to Similar Drugs?

The effects of synthetic opioids closely resemble those of other opioids, such as oxycodone, hydrocodone, and heroin. However, the increased potency and synthetic nature of these substances make them particularly concerning.

Synthetic opioids stand apart due to their ability to cause severe effects at much smaller doses. This makes them especially dangerous for unsuspecting users who may ingest them unknowingly, thinking they’re consuming less potent opioids.

Why Awareness Is Key

Recognising it and understanding their threats is crucial in reducing harm. Steps like early detection of overdose symptoms, spreading awareness about their potency, and ensuring access to rehabilitation resources can significantly impact individual lives and communities.

Source: Campus Drug Prevention