The Hidden Danger in Vapes and Pills: What You Need to Know About Nitazenes

Nitazenes are a new and alarming group of synthetic opioids now circulating in Australia. With several variants more potent than fentanyl — already one of the deadliest opioids on the market — nitazenes have been linked to overdoses, counterfeit medications and even vape liquids that don’t list them as ingredients.

With their recent detection in Australia (including in NSW, Victoria, Queensland, and the ACT) both health professionals and law enforcement are warning the public: these substances are incredibly dangerous, and often consumed unknowingly.

What Is Fentanyl — And Why Are Nitazenes Even More Concerning?

Fentanyl is a powerful prescription opioid used to treat severe pain, often in cancer patients. It is about 50 to 100 times more potent than morphine.

Nitazenes, however, were originally developed in the 1950s but never approved for use. Despite that, illicit labs have started producing them. Some types, like Isotonitazene, have been estimated to be up to 10 times more potent than fentanyl — meaning a few micrograms can be lethal.

They have been discovered:

  • In counterfeit pills that resemble oxycodone or other pain meds

  • In vape liquids, sold as nicotine or THC products

  • In powders, nasal sprays, and capsules

Health Effects and Overdose Symptoms

The extreme potency of nitazenes makes overdose frighteningly easy — especially when users don’t know they’ve taken them. Key symptoms of overdose include:

  • Unresponsiveness or unconsciousness

  • Slow, irregular, or stopped breathing

  • Pinpoint pupils

  • Bluish lips or fingertips

  • Gurgling or choking sounds

  • Pale, clammy skin

Because nitazenes can suppress breathing so quickly, overdoses may happen faster than with heroin or even fentanyl.

Steps to Take If You Suspect an Overdose

If someone is unresponsive and you suspect drug use:

  1. Call Triple Zero (000) immediately

  2. Administer naloxone if available — it can reverse opioid overdose temporarily

  3. Perform CPR if they aren’t breathing or don’t have a pulse

  4. Stay with them until emergency services arrive

Naloxone is now available without a prescription in many Australian states, and free through some pharmacies, health clinics, and community programs.

Why You Need to Talk to Your Teen About Nitazenes

Given the rise of hidden or unlabelled drugs in vape liquids and pills, even cautious young people can unknowingly be exposed. Many teens may have heard of fentanyl, but few know about nitazenes — or how much more dangerous they can be.

This is why open, honest conversations are vital. Here are some tips for parents and educators:

  • Ask what they know about fentanyl, pills, and vapes — and fill in any gaps

  • Explain that not all vapes or pills are what they seem — even one use can be fatal

  • Discuss the real risk of accidental overdose from trying something “just once”

  • Reassure them that they can come to you without judgement

  • Use resources like NotEvenOnce.org.au to provide factual, age-appropriate information

Many teens are more open than we think — but they need space and support to talk about these tough issues.

If You or Someone You Know Needs Help

There is no shame in asking for help. Whether you or a loved one is experimenting, struggling, or simply unsure:

Stay Informed, Stay Safe

Nitazenes have been detected in Australia without warning or labeling. Their presence in vapes and fake pills is a serious and growing threat. The more we know — and the more we talk — the better we can protect our young people and communities.

For updated resources, school education programs, and prevention strategies, visit www.NotEvenOnce.org.au.

Tanya CavanaghNotEvenOnce Projects Australia