BELFAST, Northern Ireland — A recent report from the coroner’s office has revealed a concerning rise in deaths linked to “super strength street drugs” in Northern Ireland. These drugs, known as Nitazenes, have been implicated in the deaths of at least six individuals, all with an average age of 28. According to the report, these drugs are “500 times stronger than morphine” and are proving to be a serious danger to public health.
The report suggests that Nitazenes have been in circulation in Northern Ireland since April 2022, with the first known death occurring at that time. The findings have prompted concern from local drug addiction services, highlighting the need for more rapid intervention and testing to address this escalating issue.
Nitazenes, developed in the 1950s as a pain-killing medication, have never been approved for medical or therapeutic use due to their potency and addictive nature. In recent years, they have been linked to thousands of deaths in the United States, often being mixed with other drugs such as heroin, cocaine, and street pills, posing an extreme risk of overdose and death.
The Public Health Agency (PHA) in Northern Ireland has issued warnings regarding the damaging effects of new synthetic opioids like Nitazenes, especially when combined with other drugs and alcohol. The rise in Nitazene-related deaths has raised alarms among addiction support services, emphasizing the urgency of putting a strategy in place to prevent further tragedies.
Gary McMichael, chief executive of the charity ASCERT, has expressed the need for swift action to address the risk posed by Nitazenes, particularly for vulnerable individuals who may be at increased risk due to funding cuts and restrictions on support resources.
The recent findings from the coroner’s office have shed light on a growing public health crisis in Northern Ireland, underscoring the need for comprehensive strategies to combat the spread of dangerously potent street drugs. As the situation continues to unfold, it is crucial for agencies and support services to work collaboratively to protect the well-being of individuals at risk and prevent further loss of life.