harm-reduction

RIDOH warns of increased overdose activity in two municipalities that historically have lower-than-average rates. What residents should know and where to find help.

Federal drug officials warn that fentanyl is increasingly mixed with xylazine, medetomidine, nitazenes, and cychlorphine — combinations that reduce naloxone effectiveness and increase overdose risk.

Public health surveillance has detected nitazene-class synthetic opioids in counterfeit pills and powders across several Midwest states. Naloxone still works, but the response calls for specific steps.

The DEA's Pacific Northwest field division warns that xylazine — a veterinary sedative — is now present in most fentanyl seized in Oregon, Washington, and Idaho. Naloxone still works on the opioid component, but additional risks require attention.