Cannabis vapes in Australia containing opioids spark calls for better access to anti-overdose drugs
August 05, 2024 by theguardian.com
Cannabis vapes in Australia containing opioids spark calls for better access to anti-overdose drugs
Two individuals were harmed by vaping synthetic opioids, with one teen dying. The substances were THC mixed with protonitazene, a lethal synthetic opioid. Medical experts share these cases to raise awareness of synthetic opioids infecting various drugs. Protonitazene, 100 times stronger than heroin, was the culprit, leading to overdoses and intense medical intervention. The incidents highlight the danger of vaping such drugs without knowledge, urging the availability of anti-overdose drugs to combat this issue. Authorities should enhance harm reduction measures, including drug checking services and wider access to naloxone. Awareness, education, and quick emergency response are crucial in preventing opioid overdoses.
13.00% of the adult population are current smokers. There are approximately 2.6 million current smokers in Australia 15.20% of men are current smokers but only 10.90% of women.
SOURCE: GSTHR
