Warning about synthetic opioids: Federal government sounds the alarm

Warning about synthetic opioids: Federal government sounds the alarm

Health risk from synthetic opioids

In an alarming warning, the federal government's drug commissioner, Burkhard Blienert (SPD), speaks out against the increasing use of synthetic opioids. Despite the well-functioning drug control system in Germany and the effective health and addiction support system, Blienert is concerned about the potential danger posed by substances such as fentanyl.

According to Blienert, the constant change in the drug market requires constant vigilance in order to recognize dangerous developments in good time. Even if Germany does not have to reckon with the dimensions of the USA, the Federal Drug Commissioner warns of the risks of synthetic opioids, which can also lead to a high number of deaths in this country. What is particularly worrying is the unclear perspective on the possible consequences of declines in opium production in Afghanistan.

To meet this challenge, Blienert brought together experts from various areas such as science, healthcare, security authorities and addiction support on Tuesday. The aim is to integrate as many people as possible into substitution programs and to strengthen the role of drug consumption rooms and drug checking in reducing risks. Particular attention is paid to the widespread availability of the emergency medication naloxone, which can be life-saving in the event of opioid overdoses.

The drug commissioner's warning highlights the urgency of taking measures to curb the spread and consumption of synthetic opioids and thus ward off potential health risks. A joint effort from politics, healthcare and civil society is required to effectively address this modern challenge.