Avenues Recovery, an addiction rehab center in Indiana, would like to spread awareness about a harmful drug recently discovered in an overdose case in the state. The FOX59 news site reported that the Hamilton County Coroner's Office is raising alarms about a dangerous new synthetic drug, nitazene, found during a death investigation in Fishers, Indiana. This warning comes after the mid-July death of 39-year-old John Bolton, who died from a suspected overdose at his home on Yard Street.
For the first time in Hamilton County, nitazene was found in Bolton's system, and authorities believe it may have played a significant role in his death. This synthetic opioid is a thousand times more powerful than morphine and up to 60 times more potent than fentanyl, making it extremely dangerous. Hamilton County Coroner Jeff Jellison emphasized the threat posed by nitazene, noting its immense potency as a key reason why the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) listed it as an emerging nationwide threat earlier this year.
Nitazene, which was initially developed in the 1950s as a substitute for morphine but never approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, is now being falsely marketed as a prescription medication like Oxycodone or Adderall. It is often sold through overseas pharmacies and can be found in various forms, including pills, powders, nasal sprays, and vape liquids. This deception is leading to tragic outcomes, as individuals unknowingly consume a drug far more lethal than what they believe they are taking.
"The messaging has to be this is the worst time to use drugs," warned Mike Gannon, DEA assistant special agent in charge. He explained that dangerous substances like fentanyl and nitazene are increasingly being mixed into pills that resemble common medications such as Adderall, M-30, or Xanax. This makes it nearly impossible for users to know what they are ingesting, putting them at a high risk of overdose and death.
Coroner Jellison echoed this sentiment, urging people to avoid taking any medication or pills that weren't prescribed by a doctor. "If you’re purchasing medication or pills that weren’t prescribed by your doctor, you’re running a risk, and it’s a risk that could put you on my autopsy table," he said.
The discovery of nitazene in Hamilton County underscores the growing dangers posed by synthetic opioids. The DEA's warning that "one pill can kill" has never been more relevant. As these potent and deadly drugs continue to emerge, the risks associated with using unprescribed or illicit substances are escalating.
In the event of a suspected overdose, officials urge people to call 911 immediately and administer Narcan, a life-saving medication that can reverse the effects of opioid overdoses. As the threat of powerful synthetic opioids like nitazene looms large, awareness and caution are more critical than ever.
If you are struggling with a drug addiction, reach out to Avenues Recovery today. We will guide and support you every step of the way to recovery with personalised treatment plans and individualised care.