The Surge of Deadly "Research Chemicals" in Germany: A Growing Menace Among Youth
Rise in Fatalities Associated with Research Compounds
Social media platforms buzz with the disturbing news of rising deaths due to the misuse of so-called "research chemicals" in Germany, particularly among the young and adventurous. This alarming trend has experts ringing warning bells about a worsening danger. But what exactly are these 'research chemicals' and why are they so popular?
Recent fatalities include a 19-year-old in Hesse and a 17-year-old in Bavaria, with multiple other cases reported nationwide. The Bavarian state criminal office alone has recorded at least seven such instances in just six months. Despite no specific count, more deaths have surfaced. Authorities are alarmed, and some regions have issued stern warnings. What's causing the commotion?
What are Research Chemicals?
These are synthetically produced substances, primarily manufactured to mimic the effects of illegal drugs. Sold under various aliases, they can easily be purchased online. However, the Federal Criminal Office (BKA) cautions that the term "research chemicals" is deceptive, with manufacturers aiming to conceal the potency of their products and evade responsibilities.
These substances share similarities with herbal mixtures used as cannabis substitutes and "bath salts," which display effects similar to cocaine or amphetamines. All are classified as new psychoactive substances (NPS).
The Most Concerning Substances
It's yet uncertain which specific NPS are causing the poisonings. The EU Drug Agency (EUDA) monitors over 1,000 NPS. However, Esther Neumeier of the German Observatory for Drugs and Drug Abuse reveals that nitazenes are involved. These are new synthetic opioids, many of which are more potent than heroin. The number of nitazenes reported amongst the nearly 50 new substances detected across Europe in 2024 was approximately half, with the other half being synthetic cannabinoids.
Who's Consuming These Drugs?
According to a report by the Munich Institute for Therapy Research, nitazene consumers are a small group of young, daring individuals who order the substances online. The BKA also reports users with "relevant experience." According to data from the Federal Drug Commissioner, around 1.3% of adults aged 18 to 59 and 0.1% of youth aged 12 to 17 have consumed NPS. Additionally, nitazenes might be added to counterfeit medications, which are taken by younger people, as well as high-risk users.
The Dangers
NPS can lead to respiratory or circulatory failure, organ poisoning, or neurological damage, reports the Federal Criminal Police Office (BKA). Experts warn about the risk of overdose with high-potency synthetic opioids like nitazenes. "The effective dose is not far from the lethal dose," says Bernd Werse from the Institute for Addiction Research in Frankfurt. In cases of opioid overdose, breathing stops, leading to death from respiratory failure.
Furthermore, it is often unclear what exactly is in the packets, experts warn. Interactions with other substances is also a risk. In the cases of deaths in Bavaria, the State Criminal Police Office reported different causes of death without elaboration. In many instances, it can be assumed that other sedatives, medications, or chemical substances also played a role.
The Extent of the Problem
Despite the 90 nitazene-related deaths among the 2227 drug-related fatalities reported in Germany in 2023, Werse expresses concern about the potential growth of the synthetic opioid issue. The current opioid shortage in Afghanistan due to the Taliban's reign could lead to synthetic substances serving as a replacement, similar to what has occurred in the US with synthetic opioid fentanyl.
Addressing the Crisis
Authorities are attempting to address the issue with information campaigns, such as the BKA's social media campaign "#dangerouscolored." Since 2016, Germany has had the New Psychoactive Substances Act (NpSG) to combat cannabinoids, bath salts, or "research chemicals." The benefit lies in entire substance groups being banned, not just individual substances. However, the effectiveness of the law is disputed, as officials contend that alternative substances that don't correspond to the defined substance classes appear on the market[1]. The International Narcotics Control Board (INCB) describes synthetic drugs as a "pressing problem for which control authorities, law enforcement, and public health services are largely unprepared." This includes nitazenes in Europe.
Sources: ntv.de, David Hutzler, dpa [1] INCB Annual Report 2023
Insights:
- Nitazenes: Potent synthetic opioids stronger than traditional opioids like oxycodone, morphine, or even fentanyl. Consumed by individuals seeking strong pain relief or those already dependent on opioids who may be unaware of the risks associated with these new substances. Mostly found in counterfeit pills sold online or as counterfeit medications. [2]
- European Context: The European Union Drugs Agency has highlighted nitazenes as an emerging threat, indicating their increasing availability across Europe. [2]
- Consumer Profile: The consumers of nitazenes primarily include young, daring individuals seeking powerful pain relief. Additionally, those already dependent on opioids, unaware of the risks associated with these new substances, might also be consumers. [2]
- Challenges and Responses: Rapid emergence of new synthetic opioids like nitazenes presents significant challenges for law enforcement and public health. Efforts to combat their spread include warnings against purchasing drugs online, enhanced drug monitoring, and interagency cooperation to identify and disrupt distribution networks. Harm reduction strategies, such as drug-checking services, are crucial in mitigating the risks associated with these substances. [1][2]
In Bavaria and other regions across Germany, policy measures related to community safety and employment are essential as the surge in "research chemicals" deaths, particularly among youth, persists. These chemicals, often marketed under misleading aliases, are synthetically produced substances with potentially deadly consequences. This issue is further complicated by the proliferation of chemicals like nitazenes, a powerful synthetic opioid more potent than traditional opioids, often contraband in counterfeit medications sold on WhatsApp and other online platforms. Policy makers, therefore, must collaborate to issue clear warnings and enact measures to combat the escalating danger posed by these hidden substances, which are largely unregulated and pose serious health risks.
