What You Need to Know About Synthetic Opioids

What Are Synthetic Opioids?

Synthetic opioids are man-made drugs designed to mimic the effects of natural opioids like morphine or heroin. Some of the most well-known include fentanyl and nitazenes. These substances are extremely powerful – often dozens or even hundreds of times stronger than heroin – and even a tiny amount can be deadly.

Why Should You Care?

Synthetic opioids are showing up in places you might not expect. They’re being mixed into other drugs like ecstasy, cannabis, or counterfeit painkillers without people knowing. This makes them especially dangerous because someone might take a pill thinking it’s safe, but it could contain a lethal dose of a synthetic opioid.

What’s Happening in the UK Right Now?

The UK government has seen a sharp rise in drug-related deaths involving synthetic opioids – over 450 deaths in the past two years. In response, they’ve launched new safety measures, including:

• Faster drug testing to detect synthetic opioids in seized substances.
• Better data sharing between police, health services, and coroners to track outbreaks.
• Public alerts when dangerous batches of drugs are found.

How Can You Stay Safe?

• Don’t take pills or powders from unknown sources. Even if it looks like a prescription drug or something you have taken before, it could be fake and laced with synthetic opioids.
• Beware of online drugs.
• Know the signs of an overdose – slow breathing, unconscious, blue lips. Dial 999 immediately if you think someone has overdosed.
• Know about naloxone. It’s a life-saving medicine that can reverse an opioid overdose.
• Stay informed. Follow local health alerts and talk to a trusted adult or health professional if you’re worried about drug safety.

Support in Enfield

Sort It Enfield – Enfield Young People’s Support Service

Sort It offer a free, friendly and confidential young people’s support service for people under the age of 25 who are affected by drug and alcohol issues.

Telephone: 020 8360 9102

Email: insightenfield@waythrough.org.uk

Website: www.insightyoungpeople.org.uk – Webchat available 3-6pm (Monday – Friday)

Address: 29 Folkestone Road, London N18 2ER

Opening times: 9:00am – 5pm (Monday – Thursday) / 9:00am – 4:30pm (Friday)

Final Thoughts

Synthetic opioids are a growing threat, but knowledge is power. By understanding the risks and looking out for each other, you can help keep yourself and your friends safe.