A recent People magazine story on nitazenes, a synthetic opioid up to 43 times stronger than fentanyl, is a sobering reminder of the dangers our communities face. This emerging threat has already claimed lives, including 22-year-old Lucci Reyes-McCallister and 21-year-old Hunter Clement, who were profiled in the article. They thought they were taking legitimate prescription pills, but the pills were laced with nitazenes. Even multiple doses of naloxone could not reverse its deadly effects. With its extreme potency and the fact that it is often undetectable in routine drug tests, nitazenes represents a new and dangerous chapter in the opioid crisis.

Awareness and prevention are our best defenses. These tragedies underscore the urgency of educating youth, parents, educators, and community leaders about the risks of misusing prescription drugs and the growing presence of deadly substances in the illicit drug supply. The emergence of nitazenes only strengthens our resolve to reach as many people as possible with lifesaving information.

We know there is still much work to be done to help people of all ages make healthy choices and avoid the risks posed by opioids and other drugs. We encourage schools, community groups, and faith-based organizations to schedule our free 15 Minute Child Break Presentation. This multimedia program offers the latest information on drug trends and provides proven strategies for talking to children about substance misuse and abuse.  In addition, our Knock Out Opioid Abuse learning series for healthcare professionals addresses emerging trends in the opioid crisis, providing vital updates and resources for those on the front lines of prevention, treatment, and recovery.

Together, through education, communication, and vigilance, we can protect our communities from the dangers of nitazenes and save lives.