Nitazenes in Europe – How should we prepare?

Date: May 9, 2025
Time: 12:00 – 1:30 PM (CEST)

Background

In recent years, Europe has seen early warning signs of an emerging synthetic opioid crisis. While heroin remains the primary opioid of concern, the rise of nitazenes—potent synthetic opioids with unpredictable effects—poses a growing threat. Unlike traditional opioids, nitazenes are often found in counterfeit medications or mixed with other substances, increasing the risk of overdose and complicating harm reduction efforts.

To explore this topic in more detail, Correlation-European Harm Reduction Network (C-EHRN), in collaboration with the Ana Liffey Drug Project, the Trimbos Institute and the City of Zurich, is organising a webinar with leading European experts. The webinar will provide an evidence-based overview of the situation around nitazenes in Europe, examine emerging trends, and discuss which policy, healthcare, and harm reduction responses are needed to prepare.

Key Topics

• Understanding Nitazenes: What are they, and why are they a growing concern?
• Current Trends in Europe: Where are nitazenes being detected, and who is most at risk?
• Health and Policy Responses: How can we prepare for and mitigate the risks?
• Harm Reduction Strategies: What measures can effectively prevent overdose and support affected communities?
• Drug Checking and Surveillance: How can early detection and monitoring systems help?

Webinar Format

This interactive webinar will include expert presentations and case studies from different European countries, and a panel discussion to explore the most effective strategies for tackling nitazenes. Participants will have the opportunity to ask questions and share insights during the Q&A session.

Agenda

• Welcome – Katrin Schiffer (C-EHRN)
• Introduction – Tony Duffin (C-EHRN Chair)
• Panelists
  • European perspective – Joanna de Morais (EUDA)
  • Community Perspective – Leo Jefferys (EuroNPUD)
  • Country Perspectives:
    • UK – Mat Southwell (Coact)
    • Netherlands – Daan van der Gouwe (Trimbos Institute)
    • Switzerland – Dominique Schori (City of Zürich)
• Panel Discussion & Q&A
• Conclusion and Outlook

Why You Should Attend

This webinar is crucial for harm reduction and healthcare professionals, policymakers, public health officials, and anyone involved in drug policy or healthcare. It will offer a comprehensive overview of current developments and trends related to nitazenes and explore practical responses at European, national, and local levels.

How to Register

Please click here to register by 9 May. Upon registration, you will receive a confirmation email with details on how to join the webinar.