There is a growing concern about two overdose categories: opioid and recreational drug overdose. Synthetic opioids are entering the drug supply chain in the United Kingdom, resulting in rising overdose deaths.
Heroin Supply and Distribution:
The heroin supply for the UK is typically distributed from Afghanistan and Pakistan. In 2022, the Taliban declared a ban on opium production. The ban and heroin shortage in the UK have resulted in a price strike. As a result of this, there has been an increase in non-fatal overdoses and increased fatalities. Nitazenes are a novel group of synthetic opioids that has contributed to the increasing demand for heroin from users.
Harm Reduction Responses:
Functioning surveillance and warning systems within healthcare and border agencies. Information should be widely available to professionals and users. Harm reduction initiatives and practices must be at the core of the response. Drug treatments needs to be accessible as soon as possible.
Opioid-related drug deaths:
The European Monitoring Centre for Drugs and Drug Addiction estimates that the UK has the highest rate of problem drug use for opioids in Europe. In England and Wales in 2021 almost half of all drug poisonings involved an opiate such as heroin and morphine.
More than 100 deaths have been linked to synthetic opioids called nitzenes according to the National Crime Agency. Fifteen synthetic opioids became Class A drugs. The National Crime Agency believes nitzenes are produced in illicit labs in China and brought to the UK through Royal Mail parcels. In the UK they are mostly mixed with heroin by organised gangs.
Xylazine, a powerful animal tranquiliser linked to horrific side effects is widespread in the UK illicit drug market. It is mixed with strong opioids such as heroin. It is a painkiller and muscle relaxant used in veterinary medicine. Range of harm reduction interventions available for use of drugs - drug checking and overdose prevention centres.
Interventions:
Overdose prevention centres = use drugs in a monitored and safe space with professionals to intervene. Provide additional support to marginalised people, offered referrals and treatment services.
Drug checking services = The public can submit substances for testing to find out what is in them—the opportunity to offer advice and referrals to other support if needed.
Safe supply = Provided to people experiencing dependency so they do not have to use toxic drug supplies.
Until the next Legal Thought,
Elicia Maxwell
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