The Future of Deadly Synthetic Opioids: Nitazenes and Their International Control

Nicholas Lassi and Su Jiang

Global Policy, 2025, vol. 16, issue 4, 669-681

Abstract: Nitazenes, a class of highly potent illicit synthetic opioids, represent an escalating global public health threat due to their increasing consumption and rising occurrence of overdose mortality connected with their use. This study evaluates the dangers posed by nitazenes, details gaps in their current international and national regulatory and enforcement measures, and proposes solutions to diminish their impact. Focusing on China and India, the two states most linked with nitazene production, the United States, the primary consumer market, and the United Nations, this research details the challenges involved in controlling these substances. Central issues include the pace of the emergence of new analogs, regulatory inconsistencies across jurisdictions, and the limited capabilities in toxicological testing. Proposed strategies for improved control include compound‐wide bans, unifying national laws with international standards, and enhanced toxicology testing capabilities for emergency responders and forensic laboratories. These findings stress the need for an adaptive and coordinated response to meet the evolving nitazene threat, with implications for public health, addiction research, and international regulatory systems.

Date: 2025
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