Drug policy reform: Germany Faces the Rising Threat of Synthetic Opioids
In recent years, Germany has seen a sharp increase in the number of deaths related to synthetic opioids. According to the German Federal Criminal Police Office (BKA), there were 1,512 deaths related to synthetic opioids in 2019, up from 995 in 2018.
What are synthetic opioids?
Synthetic opioids are man-made drugs that mimic the effects of natural opioids like heroin and fentanyl. They are often much more potent than natural opioids, and they can be very dangerous.
What are the risks of synthetic opioids?
Synthetic opioids can cause a variety of health problems, including:
- Overdose
- Addiction
- Respiratory depression
- Cardiac arrest
- Coma
- Death
What is being done to address the threat of synthetic opioids?
The German government is taking a number of steps to address the threat of synthetic opioids, including:
- Increasing law enforcement efforts to crack down on the sale and distribution of synthetic opioids
- Providing funding for addiction treatment and recovery programs
- Educating the public about the dangers of synthetic opioids
What can you do to help?
There are a number of things you can do to help address the threat of synthetic opioids, including:
- Talk to your children about the dangers of synthetic opioids
- Be aware of the signs and symptoms of opioid overdose
- Call 911 immediately if you suspect someone is overdosing on opioids
- Support organizations that are working to address the opioid crisis
The opioid crisis is a serious public health problem, but it is one that we can overcome. By working together, we can save lives and help people recover from addiction.
Kind regards
F. Hillsom
