RADAR alert issued on nitazenes and contamination of the drugs supply
First published on 12 August 2025
PHS has published a new RADAR alert on nitazenes to respond to increasing harms and availability in the drugs supply.
Nitazene-type drugs are potent, synthetic (lab-made) opioids that are now widely detected in all parts of Scotland. They pose a substantial risk of overdose, hospitalisation and death.
In Scotland, nitazenes are most commonly detected as a contaminant in drugs sold as heroin, benzodiazepines and oxycodone.
The alert has been issued by Rapid Actions Drug Alerts and Response (RADAR), led by Public Health Scotland. Data within the latest RADAR quarterly report indicates that nitazene type opioids are increasingly identified in hospital and post – mortem toxicology in Scotland. Between January and March 2025, nitazenes were detected in 38 deaths.
In advance of International drug overdose awareness day on 31 August, please look at the range of resources, including the PHS 'How to Save a Life' overdose guide.
Read the RADAR alert on nitazenes
Read the latest RADAR quarterly report
For support for people affected by drugs visit NHS inform
Order a free naloxone kit through Scottish Families Affected by Alcohol and Drugs