Pub Date : 2025-12-01DOI: 10.1016/j.etdah.2025.100207
S. Chen, R. Moore, S. Hudson, C. Copeland
Introduction
Nitazenes are highly potent synthetic opioids that are being increasingly detected in the UK illicit drug market. Following reports from toxicologists of inconsistent post-mortem test results, we investigated the stability of nitazenes in post-mortem tissues and performed pharmacoepidemiological modelling to understand the impact nitazene degradation may be having on mortality statistics.
Methods
In vivo study: rats (n=12) were administered a nitazene with post-mortem samples taken on post-mortem Day 1 and Day 7 to assess pre-sampling stability. These samples were then stored in the fridge for 1 month and re-tested to assess post-sampling stability. Pharmacoepidemiology study: Nitazene cases were extracted from the National Programme on Substance Use Mortality with exponential smoothing modelling performed to assess forecasted and actual trends in non-nitazene deaths.
Results
All three nitazenes tested (metonitazene, n-desethyl isotonitazene, n-pyrrolidino etonitazene) degraded in post-mortem blood. On average only 14% of the nitazene detected in the Day 1 samples which were tested immediately remained in the Day 7 samples stored in the fridge for 1 month (n=12). Pharmacoepidemiological modelling revealed a 30% increase in excess death in areas with known nitazene outbreaks in 2023.
Conclusions
Nitazene-related-deaths are likely being underestimated due to their degradation in post-mortem blood samples.
{"title":"Mortality Associated with Nitazenes May Be Underestimated Due to Post-Mortem Degradation","authors":"S. Chen, R. Moore, S. Hudson, C. Copeland","doi":"10.1016/j.etdah.2025.100207","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.etdah.2025.100207","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Introduction</h3><div>Nitazenes are highly potent synthetic opioids that are being increasingly detected in the UK illicit drug market. Following reports from toxicologists of inconsistent post-mortem test results, we investigated the stability of nitazenes in post-mortem tissues and performed pharmacoepidemiological modelling to understand the impact nitazene degradation may be having on mortality statistics.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>In vivo study: rats (n=12) were administered a nitazene with post-mortem samples taken on post-mortem Day 1 and Day 7 to assess pre-sampling stability. These samples were then stored in the fridge for 1 month and re-tested to assess post-sampling stability. Pharmacoepidemiology study: Nitazene cases were extracted from the National Programme on Substance Use Mortality with exponential smoothing modelling performed to assess forecasted and actual trends in non-nitazene deaths.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>All three nitazenes tested (metonitazene, n-desethyl isotonitazene, n-pyrrolidino etonitazene) degraded in post-mortem blood. On average only 14% of the nitazene detected in the Day 1 samples which were tested immediately remained in the Day 7 samples stored in the fridge for 1 month (n=12). Pharmacoepidemiological modelling revealed a 30% increase in excess death in areas with known nitazene outbreaks in 2023.</div></div><div><h3>Conclusions</h3><div>Nitazene-related-deaths are likely being underestimated due to their degradation in post-mortem blood samples.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":72899,"journal":{"name":"Emerging trends in drugs, addictions, and health","volume":"5 ","pages":"Article 100207"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2025-12-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145789763","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-12-01DOI: 10.1016/j.etdah.2025.100225
M. Gofenberg
Introduction
According to the Sverdlovsk Regional Center for the Treatment of Acute Poisoning, more than 30% of all acute chemical poisonings are associated with the use of narcotic drugs and novel psychoactive substances (NPS).
Methods
Retrospective study of laboratory data on all cases of acute poisoning with narcotic, psychotropic and new psychoactive substances in the Sverdlovsk Regional Poisoning Treatment Center, Yekaterinburg, Russia, from January 2015 to January 2025. Screening chemical-toxicological examination of urine of patients with acute poisoning was performed using the gas chromatography mass spectrometry (GC-MS) method.
Results
For 10 years, the main group of substances detected in acute poisonings in the Sverdlovsk region have been substances with psychostimulant action. In 2015–2025, in the Sverdlovsk region, both structural analogues of methamphetamine have become widespread and pyrrolidino-substituted cathinones. Since 2023, a significant number of acute poisonings with 4-chloromethylcathinone have been detected. The number of acute poisonings with synthetic cannabimimetics has decreased, but the number of acute poisonings with opioids (methadone) has increased, including fatal ones. Since 2023, the number of poisonings from Amanita mushrooms and dietary supplements containing dried pieces of these mushrooms has increased. At the same time, cases of polydrug addiction are increasingly being identified, when the use of more than one drug is recorded combined use of new psychoactive substances, medications (neuroleptics, baclofen, etc.), veterinary drugs, 1,4-butanediol, gamma-hydroxybutyric acid and alcohol.
Conclusions
The detection rate of various compounds in chemical-toxicological studies changes over time, but the main group of NPS detected in laboratory diagnostics of acute poisoning over 10 years are synthetic cathinones. The most severe cases of acute poisoning, including fatal ones, are associated with the combined use of drugs, medications and NPS.
{"title":"Monitoring the Results of Chemical-Toxicological Studies of New Psychoactive Substances in the Sverdlovsk Regional Center for the Treatment of Acute Poisoning in 2015–2025","authors":"M. Gofenberg","doi":"10.1016/j.etdah.2025.100225","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.etdah.2025.100225","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Introduction</h3><div>According to the Sverdlovsk Regional Center for the Treatment of Acute Poisoning, more than 30% of all acute chemical poisonings are associated with the use of narcotic drugs and novel psychoactive substances (NPS).</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>Retrospective study of laboratory data on all cases of acute poisoning with narcotic, psychotropic and new psychoactive substances in the Sverdlovsk Regional Poisoning Treatment Center, Yekaterinburg, Russia, from January 2015 to January 2025. Screening chemical-toxicological examination of urine of patients with acute poisoning was performed using the gas chromatography mass spectrometry (GC-MS) method.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>For 10 years, the main group of substances detected in acute poisonings in the Sverdlovsk region have been substances with psychostimulant action. In 2015–2025, in the Sverdlovsk region, both structural analogues of methamphetamine have become widespread and pyrrolidino-substituted cathinones. Since 2023, a significant number of acute poisonings with 4-chloromethylcathinone have been detected. The number of acute poisonings with synthetic cannabimimetics has decreased, but the number of acute poisonings with opioids (methadone) has increased, including fatal ones. Since 2023, the number of poisonings from Amanita mushrooms and dietary supplements containing dried pieces of these mushrooms has increased. At the same time, cases of polydrug addiction are increasingly being identified, when the use of more than one drug is recorded combined use of new psychoactive substances, medications (neuroleptics, baclofen, etc.), veterinary drugs, 1,4-butanediol, gamma-hydroxybutyric acid and alcohol.</div></div><div><h3>Conclusions</h3><div>The detection rate of various compounds in chemical-toxicological studies changes over time, but the main group of NPS detected in laboratory diagnostics of acute poisoning over 10 years are synthetic cathinones. The most severe cases of acute poisoning, including fatal ones, are associated with the combined use of drugs, medications and NPS.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":72899,"journal":{"name":"Emerging trends in drugs, addictions, and health","volume":"5 ","pages":"Article 100225"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2025-12-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145789764","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-12-01DOI: 10.1016/j.etdah.2025.100222
G. Giudice
Introduction
In recent years, Brazil has seen an increase in the circulation of NPS. While forensic laboratories have reported isolated detections, no comprehensive national survey has been conducted. To address this gap, the Center for Studies on Drugs and Community Social Development (CDESC) launched an online survey targeting focal points from forensic institutions in all Brazilian states. CDESC is a project involving UNODC, the National Secretariat for Drug Policy and Asset Management (SENAD/MJSP), and UNDP.
Methods
A chemist made the survey design and the form. The data team implemented the form using Google Apps Script with JavaScript, a free and accessible tool for nationwide data collection.
Results
At the time of submission, data collection is ongoing. So far, 23 laboratories have responded, representing all five Brazilian regions. Only two reported no NPS detections during the period. The others identified a range of substances, highlighting documentation gaps and operational challenges.
Conclusions
This retrospective mapping provides unprecedented insights into NPS presence and diversity, reinforcing the need for coordinated monitoring efforts. The findings directly informed the priorities of the newly established Early Warning System.
{"title":"Mapping the Emergence of New Psychoactive Substances in Brazil (2019–2025): A national survey supporting the Brazilian Early Warning System","authors":"G. Giudice","doi":"10.1016/j.etdah.2025.100222","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.etdah.2025.100222","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Introduction</h3><div>In recent years, Brazil has seen an increase in the circulation of NPS. While forensic laboratories have reported isolated detections, no comprehensive national survey has been conducted. To address this gap, the Center for Studies on Drugs and Community Social Development (CDESC) launched an online survey targeting focal points from forensic institutions in all Brazilian states. CDESC is a project involving UNODC, the National Secretariat for Drug Policy and Asset Management (SENAD/MJSP), and UNDP.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>A chemist made the survey design and the form. The data team implemented the form using Google Apps Script with JavaScript, a free and accessible tool for nationwide data collection.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>At the time of submission, data collection is ongoing. So far, 23 laboratories have responded, representing all five Brazilian regions. Only two reported no NPS detections during the period. The others identified a range of substances, highlighting documentation gaps and operational challenges.</div></div><div><h3>Conclusions</h3><div>This retrospective mapping provides unprecedented insights into NPS presence and diversity, reinforcing the need for coordinated monitoring efforts. The findings directly informed the priorities of the newly established Early Warning System.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":72899,"journal":{"name":"Emerging trends in drugs, addictions, and health","volume":"5 ","pages":"Article 100222"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2025-12-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145790181","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-12-01DOI: 10.1016/j.etdah.2025.100221
A. Gil
Introduction
Drugs and psychoactive substances is a continuous problem in Russia and worldwide. Northern industrial regions of Russia, including Khanty-Mansi Autonomous Okrug-Yugra (KhMAO-Yugra), are vulnerable to the epidemic of drug use due to: the higher level of economic development, intensive migration, severe northern climate.
Methods
The data on police seizure of drugs for 2024 in KhMAO-Yugra was analyzed. Results and
Conclusions
The region's black market is dominated by stimulants and other synthetic drugs (197kg or 88.2% of all seized drugs) with their illegal trafficking continuing to pose the main threat. Stimulants were mainly represented by amphetamine-type drugs (1272 cases of seizure): N-methylephedrine analogues (α-PVP), mephedrone, and MDMA. Non-synthetic drugs of the cannabis and opium groups accounted for only 9.1% and 0.3% of the seized drugs, respectively. Compared to 2003, the amount of methadone seized increased by 7% (from 1.4kg to 1.5kg), heroin – decreased by 99.3% (from 57.3kg to 0.4kg), cocaine – increased 22-fold (from 3g to 66g). Drugs are usually distributed contactlessly and enter the region predominantly by motor transport from other regions of the country mainly situated in the Urals Federal District. Criminal groups, commonly originating countries of Central Asia, retain a significant control over illegal drugs distribution.
{"title":"Police Seizure of Drugs and Other Psychoactive Substances in a Northern Region of Russia","authors":"A. Gil","doi":"10.1016/j.etdah.2025.100221","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.etdah.2025.100221","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Introduction</h3><div>Drugs and psychoactive substances is a continuous problem in Russia and worldwide. Northern industrial regions of Russia, including Khanty-Mansi Autonomous Okrug-Yugra (KhMAO-Yugra), are vulnerable to the epidemic of drug use due to: the higher level of economic development, intensive migration, severe northern climate.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>The data on police seizure of drugs for 2024 in KhMAO-Yugra was analyzed. Results and</div></div><div><h3>Conclusions</h3><div>The region's black market is dominated by stimulants and other synthetic drugs (197kg or 88.2% of all seized drugs) with their illegal trafficking continuing to pose the main threat. Stimulants were mainly represented by amphetamine-type drugs (1272 cases of seizure): N-methylephedrine analogues (α-PVP), mephedrone, and MDMA. Non-synthetic drugs of the cannabis and opium groups accounted for only 9.1% and 0.3% of the seized drugs, respectively. Compared to 2003, the amount of methadone seized increased by 7% (from 1.4kg to 1.5kg), heroin – decreased by 99.3% (from 57.3kg to 0.4kg), cocaine – increased 22-fold (from 3g to 66g). Drugs are usually distributed contactlessly and enter the region predominantly by motor transport from other regions of the country mainly situated in the Urals Federal District. Criminal groups, commonly originating countries of Central Asia, retain a significant control over illegal drugs distribution.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":72899,"journal":{"name":"Emerging trends in drugs, addictions, and health","volume":"5 ","pages":"Article 100221"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2025-12-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145790188","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-12-01DOI: 10.1016/j.etdah.2025.100231
B. Jurásek, E. Vedralová, M. Martinec, M. Kuchař
Introduction
MDMA represents one of the most commonly used illicit stimulant in Europe. Traditional analytical methods for MDMA analysis are time-consuming and require laboratory facilities, limiting field applications. Near-infrared (NIR) spectroscopy offers rapid, non-destructive identification and quantification capabilities suitable for on-site forensic analysis.
Methods
Instrumentation: A MicroNIR On-Site-W spectrometer with 3D-printed sample holder. Calibration sets: Binary mixtures of MDMA hydrochloride (10–90% w/w) were prepared with cutting agents: caffeine, talc, magnesium stearate, and microcrystalline cellulose. Data analysis: Spectral preprocessing included detrending, Savitzky-Golay first and second derivative, and standard normal variate (SNV) normalisation. Principal component analysis (PCA) and principal component regression (PCR) models were developed using CAMO Unscrambler X with 5 principal components. Validation: Street samples (n=39) seized by law enforcement agencies in the Czech Republic.
Results
The measured NIR spectra from the calibration sets were used to create PCA and PCR models. The street samples were measured by the NIR spectrometer and evaluated using the created models. The PCA models successfully differentiated MDMA from adulterants and the PCR models enabled us the quantification of the street MDMA samples. The purity of the street samples were confirmed by either GC-FID or HPLS-DAD.
Conclusions
Portable NIR spectroscopy paired with chemometric modeling provides a robust field-deployable solution for MDMA quantification. The approach supports rapid on-scene decision-making in drug enforcement operations.
{"title":"Field Quantification of MDMA in Seized Samples Using Portable NIR Spectroscopy","authors":"B. Jurásek, E. Vedralová, M. Martinec, M. Kuchař","doi":"10.1016/j.etdah.2025.100231","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.etdah.2025.100231","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Introduction</h3><div>MDMA represents one of the most commonly used illicit stimulant in Europe. Traditional analytical methods for MDMA analysis are time-consuming and require laboratory facilities, limiting field applications. Near-infrared (NIR) spectroscopy offers rapid, non-destructive identification and quantification capabilities suitable for on-site forensic analysis.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>Instrumentation: A MicroNIR On-Site-W spectrometer with 3D-printed sample holder. Calibration sets: Binary mixtures of MDMA hydrochloride (10–90% w/w) were prepared with cutting agents: caffeine, talc, magnesium stearate, and microcrystalline cellulose. Data analysis: Spectral preprocessing included detrending, Savitzky-Golay first and second derivative, and standard normal variate (SNV) normalisation. Principal component analysis (PCA) and principal component regression (PCR) models were developed using CAMO Unscrambler X with 5 principal components. Validation: Street samples (n=39) seized by law enforcement agencies in the Czech Republic.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>The measured NIR spectra from the calibration sets were used to create PCA and PCR models. The street samples were measured by the NIR spectrometer and evaluated using the created models. The PCA models successfully differentiated MDMA from adulterants and the PCR models enabled us the quantification of the street MDMA samples. The purity of the street samples were confirmed by either GC-FID or HPLS-DAD.</div></div><div><h3>Conclusions</h3><div>Portable NIR spectroscopy paired with chemometric modeling provides a robust field-deployable solution for MDMA quantification. The approach supports rapid on-scene decision-making in drug enforcement operations.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":72899,"journal":{"name":"Emerging trends in drugs, addictions, and health","volume":"5 ","pages":"Article 100231"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2025-12-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145789567","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-12-01DOI: 10.1016/j.etdah.2025.100244
M. Mrňavá, P. Palivec, Š. Friedrichová, M. Kuchař
Introduction
Etodesnitazene, a synthetic benzimidazole opioid, has recently emerged drug market as a potent new psychoactive substance with significant abuse potential. Due to limited data on its metabolism, there is a critical need to elucidate its biotransformation pathways along with confirmation of the structures using synthesized standards for forensic and toxicological purposes.
Methods
In vitro incubations were performed using pooled human and rat liver microsomes, hepatocytes, and cytosolic fractions to assess both phase I and phase II metabolism. For in vivo studies, urine samples were collected from male Wistar rats. Analysis of all samples was performed by UHPLC-HRMS/MS, and metabolic pathways were determined using Compound Discoverer, FreeStyle and MassFrontier softwares. The selected metabolites were further synthesized and analyzed under the same conditions to confirm the structure.
Results
Across all models, several phase I and phase II metabolites were detected, including hydroxylated, N-dealkylated, and glucuronidated derivatives observed mainly in hepatocyte incubations and rat urine.
Conclusions
The combined use of in vitro and in vivo models provided a comprehensive overview of etodesnitazene metabolism. The data obtained (structure, m/z, RT, fragmentation spectra) can be utilized by forensic toxicology laboratories to confirm the presence of this substance in, for instance, urine, blood or hair samples of users. Concurrently, the confirmation and synthesis of our metabolite standards establish the foundation for future pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic studies.
{"title":"Identification of Etodesnitazene Metabolites Using UHPLC-HRMS/MS in Various In Vitro and In Vivo Models","authors":"M. Mrňavá, P. Palivec, Š. Friedrichová, M. Kuchař","doi":"10.1016/j.etdah.2025.100244","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.etdah.2025.100244","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Introduction</h3><div>Etodesnitazene, a synthetic benzimidazole opioid, has recently emerged drug market as a potent new psychoactive substance with significant abuse potential. Due to limited data on its metabolism, there is a critical need to elucidate its biotransformation pathways along with confirmation of the structures using synthesized standards for forensic and toxicological purposes.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>In vitro incubations were performed using pooled human and rat liver microsomes, hepatocytes, and cytosolic fractions to assess both phase I and phase II metabolism. For in vivo studies, urine samples were collected from male Wistar rats. Analysis of all samples was performed by UHPLC-HRMS/MS, and metabolic pathways were determined using Compound Discoverer, FreeStyle and MassFrontier softwares. The selected metabolites were further synthesized and analyzed under the same conditions to confirm the structure.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>Across all models, several phase I and phase II metabolites were detected, including hydroxylated, N-dealkylated, and glucuronidated derivatives observed mainly in hepatocyte incubations and rat urine.</div></div><div><h3>Conclusions</h3><div>The combined use of in vitro and in vivo models provided a comprehensive overview of etodesnitazene metabolism. The data obtained (structure, m/z, RT, fragmentation spectra) can be utilized by forensic toxicology laboratories to confirm the presence of this substance in, for instance, urine, blood or hair samples of users. Concurrently, the confirmation and synthesis of our metabolite standards establish the foundation for future pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic studies.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":72899,"journal":{"name":"Emerging trends in drugs, addictions, and health","volume":"5 ","pages":"Article 100244"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2025-12-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145789569","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
New Psychoactive Substances (NPS) are substances of abuse not controlled under the 1961 Single Convention on Narcotic Drugs or the 1971 Convention on Psychotropic Substances, as defined by the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime. Globally, over 1,350 NPS have been reported, including highly potent synthetic opioids. According to the European Union Drugs Agency, since 2009, 88 synthetic opioids have been detected on the European drug market. In 2024, seven new substances were reported, all belonging to the Nitazene class — highly potent compounds linked to overdose deaths. To date, 22 Nitazenes have been identified across Europe.
Methods
This research focuses on the synthesis of Nitazene derivatives based on the 2-benzylbenzimidazole scaffold. Structural diversity was achieved through substitutions at two key positions: (i) the ether moiety of the benzyl group and (ii) the benzimidazole core.
Results
The synthesised compounds were structurally characterised using Nuclear Magnetic Resonance spectroscopy and High-Resolution Mass Spectrometry to confirm their molecular structure and purity.
Conclusions
This study introduces new analogues to the Nitazenes, enriching the structural diversity of this emerging class of opioid. The characterised compounds can serve as analytical reference standards to support identification and monitoring of these substances in forensic and toxicological settings.
{"title":"Synthesis and Characterization of Potentially Dangerous New Nitazene Analogues","authors":"D.F.R. Ferreira, N.R. Neng, A.L.M.B.C. Quintas, H.M.G.G. Gaspar","doi":"10.1016/j.etdah.2025.100216","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.etdah.2025.100216","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Introduction</h3><div>New Psychoactive Substances (NPS) are substances of abuse not controlled under the 1961 Single Convention on Narcotic Drugs or the 1971 Convention on Psychotropic Substances, as defined by the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime. Globally, over 1,350 NPS have been reported, including highly potent synthetic opioids. According to the European Union Drugs Agency, since 2009, 88 synthetic opioids have been detected on the European drug market. In 2024, seven new substances were reported, all belonging to the Nitazene class — highly potent compounds linked to overdose deaths. To date, 22 Nitazenes have been identified across Europe.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>This research focuses on the synthesis of Nitazene derivatives based on the 2-benzylbenzimidazole scaffold. Structural diversity was achieved through substitutions at two key positions: (i) the ether moiety of the benzyl group and (ii) the benzimidazole core.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>The synthesised compounds were structurally characterised using Nuclear Magnetic Resonance spectroscopy and High-Resolution Mass Spectrometry to confirm their molecular structure and purity.</div></div><div><h3>Conclusions</h3><div>This study introduces new analogues to the Nitazenes, enriching the structural diversity of this emerging class of opioid. The characterised compounds can serve as analytical reference standards to support identification and monitoring of these substances in forensic and toxicological settings.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":72899,"journal":{"name":"Emerging trends in drugs, addictions, and health","volume":"5 ","pages":"Article 100216"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2025-12-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145789649","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-12-01DOI: 10.1016/j.etdah.2025.100214
S. Fereydouni
Introduction
The search for novel anticancer therapies has led to the repurposing of psychoactive drugs. Sertraline, a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI), is emerging as a candidate for cancer treatment beyond its psychiatric use. Objectives: To evaluate the anticancer potential of sertraline on pancreatic cancer cells (PANC 1) and assess its dose-dependent cytotoxic effects.
Methods
PANC 1 cells were treated with sertraline at concentrations ranging from 15.625 to 500 µg/mL. Cell viability was measured using the MTT assay after 24 hours. The data were analyzed using ANOVA.
Results
Sertraline reduced PANC 1 cell viability in a dose-dependent manner: 500 µg/mL (≈10% viability), 250 µg/mL (≈25%), 125 µg/mL (≈40%), 62.5 µg/mL (≈50%), and 31.25 µg/mL (≈85% viability). No significant effect was observed at 15.625 µg/mL or in control samples.
Conclusions
These findings support the repositioning of sertraline as a novel psychoactive substance with anticancer properties. Its selective cytotoxicity toward PANC 1 cells highlights potential for therapeutic development in pancreatic cancer.
{"title":"Exploring the Anticancer Potential of the Psychoactive Drug Sertraline: A Step Toward Repurposed Oncology Therapeutics","authors":"S. Fereydouni","doi":"10.1016/j.etdah.2025.100214","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.etdah.2025.100214","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Introduction</h3><div>The search for novel anticancer therapies has led to the repurposing of psychoactive drugs. Sertraline, a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI), is emerging as a candidate for cancer treatment beyond its psychiatric use. Objectives: To evaluate the anticancer potential of sertraline on pancreatic cancer cells (PANC 1) and assess its dose-dependent cytotoxic effects.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>PANC 1 cells were treated with sertraline at concentrations ranging from 15.625 to 500 µg/mL. Cell viability was measured using the MTT assay after 24 hours. The data were analyzed using ANOVA.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>Sertraline reduced PANC 1 cell viability in a dose-dependent manner: 500 µg/mL (≈10% viability), 250 µg/mL (≈25%), 125 µg/mL (≈40%), 62.5 µg/mL (≈50%), and 31.25 µg/mL (≈85% viability). No significant effect was observed at 15.625 µg/mL or in control samples.</div></div><div><h3>Conclusions</h3><div>These findings support the repositioning of sertraline as a novel psychoactive substance with anticancer properties. Its selective cytotoxicity toward PANC 1 cells highlights potential for therapeutic development in pancreatic cancer.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":72899,"journal":{"name":"Emerging trends in drugs, addictions, and health","volume":"5 ","pages":"Article 100214"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2025-12-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145789651","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-12-01DOI: 10.1016/j.etdah.2025.100197
S. Bilel
Introduction
Novel synthetic opioids (NSOs), represent a growing public health concern due to their high potency and association with increasing cases of intoxication and fatal overdose. They include fentanyl analogs, non-fentanyl compounds, and emerging classes such as benzimidazole opioids and nitazenes. Naloxone remains the primary treatment for opioid overdose. However, the efficacy of naloxone can vary depending on the pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic profiles of each compound. The aim of this study is to evaluate the role of naloxone pre-treatment in preventing cardio-respiratory impairment induced by a selection of NSOs, ranging from older to newly identified substances.
Methods
Male CD-1 mice were used to assess the acute cardiorespiratory effects of various NSOs. The tested compounds included MT-45 (15 mg/kg), fentanyl alone and with xylazine (1 mg/kg + 10 mg/kg), brorphine (15 mg/kg), etonitazene (0.3 mg/kg), and isotonitazene (0.3 mg/kg). To evaluate opioid receptor-mediated effects, naloxone (6 mg/kg, i.p.) was administered as a pre-treatment.
Results
All tested NSOs significantly reduced heart rate and respiratory rate in mice. The severity and reversibility of these effects varied across compound classes. Naloxone pre-treatment fully prevented the cardiorespiratory impairments of MT-45 but only partially the effects induced by all other opioids. Notably, nitazenes demonstrated the most potent and resistant profile to naloxone reversal.
Conclusions
These results underscore the high toxicity of NSOs, highlighting the need for Naloxone redosing in clinical settings.
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Pub Date : 2025-12-01DOI: 10.1016/j.etdah.2025.100240
N. Lunchenkov, N. Cherchenko, E. German, S. Rinne-Wolf
Introduction
Chemsex (intentional psychoactive substance use to enhance sexual experiences) among gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men (GBMSM) is associated with HIV transmission and psychological distress. Limited research exists on chemsex trajectories in Eastern Europe and Central Asia, where structural homophobia and restrictive policies uniquely shape risks. This study identified chemsex engagement stages and examined how social, psychological, and structural factors influence transitions among GBMSM in Kazakhstan.
Methods
A cross-sectional qualitative study was conducted in Almaty, Kazakhstan (July-September 2023). Twenty-one GBMSM who engaged in chemsex within 12 months participated in 60-90 minute semi-structured interviews. All participants used mephedrone and/or alpha-PHP. Deductive reflexive thematic analysis, guided by Life Course Theory, reconstructed chemsex trajectories from retrospective accounts.
Results
Four trajectory stages emerged: Initiation occurred through trusted networks in intimate settings, fulfilling emotional needs for connection. Maintenance involved self-imposed limits but declining satisfaction with sober sex. Escalation featured breakdown of protective boundaries and increased use despite consequences. Dependence involved loss of control, with substance use shifting from pleasure enhancement to withdrawal coping. Structural stigma constrained agency throughout all stages, while chemsex networks provided emotional safety unavailable elsewhere.
Conclusions
Chemsex trajectories represent dynamic processes where substance use functions as emotional regulation and social survival strategies in high-stigma contexts, shaped by interactions between individual agency and structural constraints.
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