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Full Text Available
Open Access / OK to Reproduce
Peer Reviewed
Objective
Given the need for effective responses of the health system to reduce substance-related harms, it is important to consider the potential impact of novel non-fentanyl synthetic opioids on opioid-related morbidity and mortality in Ontario. While there are other groups of NSO, this review and risk assessment focus specifically on the benzimidazole-opioids group.
Findings/Key points
The risk of severe overdose with benzimidazole-opioids is moderate to high, with the potential to need higher doses of naloxone due to potency that may exceed fentanyl and co-occurrence with fentanyl/analogues. The presence of benzimidazole-opioids increases the need for testing and surveillance capacity in harm reduction, health and forensic settings.
At this time, the available information supports continuing with current approaches to opioid overdose prevention and response, including not using drugs while alone, accessing drug checking and supervised consumption services where available, monitoring respiratory status after using, the use of naloxone if needed, and seeking emergency health care.
