New synthetic opioids called nitazenes, hundreds of times stronger than other drugs, are becoming a growing concern in Denmark and could lead to deaths among young people. A researcher and the government have expressed concern about this development, prompting a proposed intervention against these new drugs.

Nitazenes are far more dangerous than drugs like heroin, oxycodone, tramadol, and fentanyl. The difference between a high and a fatal dose is incredibly small. These substances cause euphoria but also lead to decreased consciousness, low blood pressure, slow pulse, and inhibited breathing, quickly after ingestion.

The Danish Health Authority reported the presence of nitazenes in the illegal market last summer, detecting them in ecstasy tablets. Since then, deaths have been linked to nitazenes, including recent cases investigated by Sydøstjyllands Politi. Other countries have experienced severe consequences, with at least 400 drug-related deaths linked to nitazenes in the UK and at least 45 confirmed deaths in Sweden.

The government is reacting by adding 11 new synthetic opioids, mainly nitazenes, to the list of prohibited euphoric substances. The Minister for the Interior and Health emphasized the imminent risk of poisoning and potential death from even small amounts of these substances, particularly after a fake blister pack of OxyContin containing nitazenes was discovered. Professor Henrik Vigh from the University of Copenhagen is calling for an action plan that includes information campaigns aimed at young people, and better resources for law enforcement to crack down on the substances.