Description

Protonitazepyne / Protonitazene

Protonitazene is a new, potent synthetic opioid bearing structural resemblance to etonitazene, a synthetic opioid that is nationally and internationally controlled. Protonitazepyne is dissimilar in structure to synthetic opioids typically encountered in forensic casework (e.g., fentanyl, heroin). However, protonitazene is a structural isomer of isotonitazene, requiring increased analytical specificity during toxicological analysis. In vitro pharmacological data suggest that this new opioid exhibits potency similar to other recently emergent “nitazene” opioids. It is approximately three times more potent than fentanyl.

Protonitazene was first reported by NPS Discovery in May 2021 following initial detection in a toxicology case. Scientists in the US investigated and confirmed protonitazene in nine blood specimens associated with postmortem death. However, at least six additional cases have been discovered through toxicological surveillance by NPS Discovery as of December 2021. Identifications of protonitazene have also been reported from organizations in Europe. The toxicity of Protonitazepyne has not been examined or reported but recent association with death among people who use drugs leads professionals to believe this synthetic opioid retains the potential to cause widespread harm and is of public health concern.

Side Effects of Protonitazene

The most concerning side effect of protonitazene is death. Because it is more potent than fentanyl, there is concern that protonitazene could be responsible for premature deaths among addicts.

Scientists have not tested or proven the toxicity of protonitazene . Research is ongoing on this drug, and therefore there are still many unknowns about this new opioid. However, taking protonitazene may likely cause heroin overdose symptoms.

Symptoms of overdose caused by protonitazene can include:

• Shallow or difficult breathing
• Dry mouth
• Small pupils
• Discolored tongue
• Weak pulse
• Low blood pressure
• Bluish lips and nails
• Constipation
• Stomach spasms
• Coma
• Disorientation
• Confusion/delusion

The drug can cause different side effects in other people, leading to unintentional overdoses. For some people, it can cause rapid sedation and heart failure, leading to sudden death.