Rising Threat of Synthetic Opioids in Australia

Australia faces an emerging threat from highly potent synthetic opioids like nitazenes, which are contaminating the drug supply and increasing overdose risks. Enhanced monitoring and harm reduction strategies are urgently needed.

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Australia is experiencing an increasing infiltration of synthetic opioids into its drug supply, raising significant public health concerns. Recent investigations by the Australian Federal Police have identified nitazenes—highly potent synthetic opioids—in counterfeit pharmaceuticals seized at borders. These substances are chemically similar to fentanyl, which is known for its role in overdose deaths in the United States, with some nitazene compounds being up to 50 times more powerful than fentanyl. A typical onset of action for nitazenes occurs within just two minutes, vastly reducing the window for emergency intervention in overdose situations.

A new study published in the Drug and Alcohol Review highlights the extent of this emerging threat across Australia. It reports the detection of these novel synthetic opioids in every jurisdiction except Tasmania, with at least 22 deaths linked to fentanyl analogs since 2013 and at least 22 nitazene-related fatalities in Victoria since 2021. Despite existing monitoring capacities, rapid advances in nitazene variants challenge the ability of health authorities to identify and respond to these threats in real-time.

Experts emphasize that many individuals may unknowingly consume synthetic opioids, as these substances are increasingly found as contaminants in drugs like MDMA, cocaine, and counterfeit pharmaceuticals. This unintentional exposure heightens the risk of overdose and death, especially among people without a history of opioid use.

To mitigate these dangers, harm reduction strategies such as drug checking services, including pill testing, and expanded availability of naloxone—an opioid overdose reversal medication—are crucial. Currently, drug checking is accessible in the Australian Capital Territory, Victoria, and New South Wales, but other states like Queensland have ceased their services.

Researchers and authorities urge Australia to bolster its preparedness and response mechanisms, aiming to curb the spread and impact of synthetic opioids. Strengthening harm reduction responses and public awareness is imperative to address this escalating crisis.

Source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-05-australia-threats-synthetic-opioids.html