Drugs to watch out for in 2023
KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (WDEF) — The TBI recently addressed drug trends in the state.
Along with a list of 10 well-known drugs, there are also new analogs on the horizon. Analogs are best explained as modified drugs that combine chemically similar substances.
“Think about dogs for example. If fentanyl are Labrador retrievers, then fentanyl analogs are chihuahuas and golden retrievers and Doberman pinchers, and rottweilers. They’re very similar, they’re all based on the same thing. Some may be more dangerous; some may be less dangerous. But they all kind of have the same general effect,” Assistant Director of the TBI’s Forensic Services Division Mike Lyttle said.
Drugs to watch out for are known as Nitazenes.
These synthetic opiates pose a threat to individuals and have already been associated with overdose deaths in East Tennessee.
Analogs were recognized in 2020 but have now begun to present more of a concern.
Individuals trying these drugs are vulnerable to the presence of manipulated substances.
“That will result in overdose deaths actually spiking just a little bit. Because they go to other sources of supply. They may try drugs that they haven’t tried before, and they’re not accustomed to the drugs that they’re on,” Special Agent in Charge of the Upper Cumberland Drug Division Jim Williams said.
These analogs are sold online as powders, nasal sprays, or counterfeit pills.
The TBI will continue to monitor drug trends in the state and chart expected data.
