Isotonitazene: A New Synthetic Opioid Killer Drug

The overdose mortality rate in America has risen markedly in the last two decades. For example, in 2010, there were 21,089 opioid-involved overdose deaths; and by 2021, there were 80,411.

New synthetic opioids are constantly entering circulation and the most recent one is Isotonitazene, commonly referred to as Iso. Isotonitazene is a synthetic opioid analgesic that has grown in popularity in recent years due to its strength and simplicity of access. Despite being promoted as a “legal high,” Iso is exceedingly dangerous and addictive, causing considerable bodily and emotional harm to people who take it.

This post, we will look at the effects of Iso, the hazards connected with its usage, and the actions that may be taken to combat the rising problem of Iso misuse. By increasing awareness about the dangers of Iso, this article aims to discourage its use and assist individuals who are addicted.

What exactly is Isotonitazene?

Iso is an opioid analgesic drug related to Fentanyl. However, because it has a different chemical structure, it is stronger than both heroin and Fentanyl and is consequently causing more overdose fatalities.

Isotonitazene is most closely related to Etonitazene, and although weaker than Etonitazene, it can be anywhere from 1,000 times to 1,500 times stronger than morphine. Isotonitazene is classed in the chemical family of benzimidazole opioids and is known for being highly addictive.

Iso was created in the mid-1950s by chemists trying to develop a safe pain medication with a higher opioid analgesic potency than morphine. Iso first appeared in the illicit drug market in Europe in April 2019. By March 2020, it was identified in 8 European countries plus the United States and Canada. Between June 2019 and December 2019, Isotonitazene was responsible for eight deaths in America.

Iso, is a highly addictive opioid analgesic and can cause considerable bodily and emotional harm to individuals who take it. This substance has the potential to cause overdose, respiratory depression, and death. It can also cause long-term repercussions, including addiction and health issues. Iso is categorized as a controlled drug in many countries due to its potency and the hazards connected with its use. Its sale and possession are illegal in many places.

The Signs Of Opioid Addiction

The signs of opioid addiction can be divided into four categories: behavioral symptoms, physical symptoms, cognitive symptoms, and psychological symptoms. These include the following:

Behavioral Symptoms:

• Pretending to experience pain to have a prescription for opioids filled

• Scheduling appointments with multiple different doctors in an attempt to receive multiple prescriptions

• Sub-standard work performance

• Prolonged periods of absence from work

• Isolating behavior and minimal contact with family and friends

• Stealing medications

Physical Symptoms:

• Untidy appearance, loss of weight, and a lack of hygiene

• Decreased motor skills and a reduction in coordination

• Regular bouts of vomiting and diarrhea

• Nausea and constricted pupils

Cognitive Symptoms:

• Slowed thinking process

• Impaired judgment and the inability to solve simple problems

• Feelings of being detached or separated from everyday life

• Lack of concentration and easily distracted

Psychological Symptoms:

• Erratic emotional swings

• Sudden outbursts of anger and distress

• Easily irritated

• Depression

• Paranoia

What are the possible side effects of Iso use?

Isotonitazene causes effects comparable to morphine and fentanyl, such as euphoria, relaxation, drowsiness, heart rate lowering, and slow respiration. It also causes some adverse side effects such as un-coordination, drowsiness, high levels of confusion, dizziness, a feeling of being under sedation, and severe intoxication.

When used with other opioids or other central nervous system or respiratory depressants, such as benzodiazepine-related medications, the risk of hazardous vital suppression (e.g., slowing down of breathing, blood pressure, and heart rate) increases.

Why are more people experimenting with Iso?

There are several reasons why more individuals are experimenting with Iso. Firstly, it is significantly more potent than other available opioids, meaning its effects are more profound.

Secondly, the US drug regulations have lagged; and Iso, up until 2019, was not considered part of the mainstream illicit drug scene. Indeed, it was only in 2020 that Iso was designated as a Schedule I drug.

Thirdly, because it was not recognized as part of the mainstream illicit drug trade, there was little testing for its presence, and it was distributed beneath the DEA radar. This meant it was comparatively easy to source and purchase Iso online.

Lastly, Iso is a highly addictive synthetic opioid, and users easily develop a dependency.

It Is Difficult To Detect

Another reason Iso is becoming increasingly popular is that it is difficult to detect in drug tests. A conventional opiate test does not test for Isotonitazene, and because of this, in terms of detection, people regard it as one of the safer opioids to take.

Because Iso is one of the comparatively new synthetic drugs to enter mainstream circulation, therapy to treat an Iso overdose is still very much in its infancy.

Why is Iso riskier than other opioids?

As stated previously, Isotonitazene is notably stronger than other opioids, and this chemical strength attracts opioids users looking for a more substantial high.

Secondly, Iso has the novelty factor. Iso is a comparatively new drug in the illicit drug market, and its long-term effects are yet unknown. This novelty factor is something that attracts many opioid users.

Thirdly, Iso is available in powder and tablet form, allowing users to combine it with other illegal narcotics like cocaine and heroin.

Why are Iso users more likely to overdose?

In 2020, reports of overdoses increased and since then, the use of drugs, specifically opioids, has continued to rise. For example, in Wisconsin alone, overdoses due to opioids have more than doubled since the pandemic, and experts attribute most of these overdoses to Iso.

Since 2020, Iso has caused between 40 and 50 overdose deaths per month in the United States alone. Iso alters your oxygen intake and carbon dioxide emission, resulting in opioid-induced respiratory depression (OIRD). If untreated over an extended period, the user may experience cardiac arrest, followed by hypercapnia and hypoxia.

The Bottom Line

Iso is a synthetic opioid medication structurally and chemically comparable to classical opioids such as Fentanyl and Morphine. Iso is categorized as a controlled drug in many countries due to its potency and the hazards connected with its use. Its sale and possession are unlawful in many places. Despite these restrictions, the use of Iso is increasing, making it a severe public health risk.

Help is available through Haven House Recovery.

Do you have a male loved one dealing with the after-effects of opiate addiction? For assistance, contact Haven House Recovery, a center for addiction treatment in Nashville. We have highly qualified and caring personnel that will provide all of the assistance your loved one needs. Our faith-centered programs have helped thousands of men kick their drug habits and go on to lead a sober and productive life.