The landscape of drug use in the United States is experiencing significant changes, with overdose deaths decreasing but new synthetic drugs rapidly emerging. This dual trend presents both hope and danger, as experts navigate the evolving crisis.
Decline in Overdose Deaths
In a noteworthy shift, the number of fatal overdoses from fentanyl and other street drugs is on the decline. Lori Ann Post from Northwestern University describes this trend as “unprecedented,” marking the longest consecutive decrease in drug-related deaths in recent history.
Factors contributing to this positive development include the reduced potency of fentanyl on the streets and improvements in health and addiction care. Nabarun Dasgupta of the University of North Carolina highlights significant progress in reducing drug deaths among younger populations, citing data from Maine where no individuals under 25 have died from drug overdoses in nearly a year. “Zero is a meaningful number,” Dasgupta asserts.
Emergence of Synthetic Drugs
Despite these improvements, new synthetic drugs are appearing at an alarming rate. These drugs, often more potent than fentanyl, are becoming a part of what Dasgupta refers to as “the synthetic soup that is the American drug supply.” Historically, drug dealers relied on plant-based substances like cocaine and heroin, but there’s been a shift towards substances made from industrial chemicals.
Ed Sisco, a research chemist at the National Institute of Standards and Technology, notes that illegal labs are constantly creating new compounds. “Once a month or once every other month, we’re encountering something that we’ve never seen before,” he explains. These new drugs include powerful sedatives like medetomidine and xylazine, as well as synthetic opioids even stronger than fentanyl.
Challenges in Detection and Impact
Street drug users face significant risks as they often have no way of knowing the substances they are ingesting. Sisco emphasizes that both the type and amount of substances in the drug supply are “constantly changing.” Many of these compounds, even when not lethal, can cause severe harm, from skin lesions to heart issues.
In Richland County, South Carolina, coroner Naida Rutherford encountered a mysterious overdose case where traditional testing methods failed to detect any substances. Upon further investigation, her team discovered the presence of cychlorphine, a potent new synthetic opioid. “This is the first time we’ve seen it in South Carolina,” Rutherford remarks, highlighting the challenges in identifying and testing for these new drugs.
Impact on Drug Use Behavior
Interestingly, the perilous nature of these synthetic drugs may be influencing user behavior. According to Dasgupta, many long-term users are deciding to quit or seek treatment, recognizing the heightened risks associated with the current drug supply. The toxicity of the “synthetic soup” appears to be a deterrent for some, potentially contributing to the overall decline in overdose deaths.
This article was originally written by www.npr.org
