Approximately one in three Americans knows someone who has died from a drug overdose, revealed a new survey on Friday (May 31).&nbsp;

<h2>Losing someone to drug overdose</h2>

More than 2,300 adults took part in the survey conducted by researchers at the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health.

It found that 32 per cent of respondents knew someone who had succumbed to a fatal drug overdose. Furthermore, for 18.9 per cent of these, that person "was a family member or close friend".

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/heartbreaking-reality-over-321000-children-left-orphaned-due-to-americas-drug-epidemic-between-2011-2021-719636">Heartbreaking! Over 321,000 children lost a parent to America's drug epidemic between 2011-2021</a>

The survey also highlighted the fact that individuals across the political spectrum had similar rates of knowing someone who had died from an overdose. It also found that those personally affected by such a loss were more likely to view addiction as an "extremely or very important policy issue." Researchers believe this indicates that those who have lost loved ones to overdoses might be able to unite to "facilitate greater policy change."

"The drug overdose crisis is a national tragedy," said Alene Kennedy-Hendricks, who led the analysis, in a news release. She emphasised that while many US adults are mourning overdose-related losses, they might not be as visible as groups affected by "less stigmatised health issues".&nbsp;

"Although large numbers of US adults are bereaved due to overdose, they may not be as visible as other groups who have lost loved ones to less stigmatised health issues."&nbsp;

Kennedy-Hendricks suggests that movements aiming to "build support for policy change to overcome the devastating toll of the overdose crisis should consider the role of this community."

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Furthermore, the economic burden of the opioid crisis is staggering, with associated costs exceeding $1 trillion annually in the United States, reported&nbsp;the survey.

<h2>US drug epidemic</h2>

In recent years, the United States, as per the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), has witnessed over 100,000 drug overdose deaths annually. Since 1990, more than one million Americans have died from drug overdoses, with the majority of these deaths being opioid-related. Synthetic opioids, particularly fentanyl, have been a major driver of this crisis, said the CDC.

This comes as another recent study revealed that drug abuse is increasingly claiming the lives of scores of parents, leaving hundreds of thousands of children orphan.

As per the National Institute on Drug Abuse, between 2011 and 2021, around 649,599 people aged 18 to 64 died from a drug overdose. This translates to an estimated 321,566 children losing a parent to the drug epidemic.&nbsp;

The National Institute on Drug Abuse recently reported that over 321,000 children in the United States have lost parents to overdoses in the past decade. This tragic situation underscores the far-reaching impact of the crisis.

(With inputs from agencies)

Approximately one in three Americans knows someone who has died from a drug overdose, revealed a new survey on Friday (May 31). Losing someone to drug overdose More than 2,300 adults took part in the survey conducted by researchers at the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health.

Approximately one in three Americans knows someone who has died from a drug overdose, revealed a new survey on Friday (May 31). Losing someone to drug overdose More than 2,300 adults took part in the survey conducted by researchers at the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health. It found that 32 per cent of respondents knew someone who had succumbed to a fatal drug overdose. Furthermore, for 18.9 per cent of these, that person "was a family member or close friend". Also read | Heartbreaking! Over 321,000 children lost a parent to America's drug epidemic between 2011-2021 The survey also highlighted the fact that individuals across the political spectrum had similar rates of knowing someone who had died from an overdose. It also found that those personally affected by such a loss were more likely to view addiction as an "extremely or very important policy issue." Researchers believe this indicates that those who have lost loved ones to overdoses might be able to unite to "facilitate greater policy change." "The drug overdose crisis is a national tragedy," said Alene Kennedy-Hendricks, who led the analysis, in a news release. She emphasised that while many US adults are mourning overdose-related losses, they might not be as visible as groups affected by "less stigmatised health issues". "Although large numbers of US adults are bereaved due to overdose, they may not be as visible as other groups who have lost loved ones to less stigmatised health issues." Kennedy-Hendricks suggests that movements aiming to "build support for policy change to overcome the devastating toll of the overdose crisis should consider the role of this community." Also read | Have we 'already lost climate battle'?: April continues damning 11-month trend, emerges as hottest since 1940 Furthermore, the economic burden of the opioid crisis is staggering, with associated costs exceeding $1 trillion annually in the United States, reported the survey. US drug epidemic In recent years, the United States, as per the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), has witnessed over 100,000 drug overdose deaths annually. Since 1990, more than one million Americans have died from drug overdoses, with the majority of these deaths being opioid-related. Synthetic opioids, particularly fentanyl, have been a major driver of this crisis, said the CDC. This comes as another recent study revealed that drug abuse is increasingly claiming the lives of scores of parents, leaving hundreds of thousands of children orphan. As per the National Institute on Drug Abuse, between 2011 and 2021, around 649,599 people aged 18 to 64 died from a drug overdose. This translates to an estimated 321,566 children losing a parent to the drug epidemic. The National Institute on Drug Abuse recently reported that over 321,000 children in the United States have lost parents to overdoses in the past decade. This tragic situation underscores the far-reaching impact of the crisis. (With inputs from agencies)

'National tragedy': Survey reveals 1 in 3 Americans affected by drug overdose deaths

A new survey has revealed that one in three Americans knows someone killed by a drug overdose or losing a loved one to a drug overdose. Drug overdose is becoming a common phenomenon for many Americans in recent years.

New study on US drug overdose deaths

Drug abuse is increasingly claiming the lives of numerous parents, leaving hundreds of thousands of children orphan, revealed a new study. As per the National Institute on Drug Abuse, between 2011 and 2021, over 321,000 children lost a parent to drug overdose in the United States.

<h2>First of its kind&nbsp;study on loss</h2>

The study is the first of its kind to shine a light on the number of children affected by the overdose crisis in America.&nbsp;

Between 2011 and 2021, 649,599 people aged 18 to 64 died from a drug overdose. This translates to an estimated 321,566 children losing a parent.&nbsp;

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Despite these tragic numbers, no national study had previously estimated the number of children who lost a parent to drug overdose.&nbsp;

"This first-of-its-kind study allows us to better understand the tragic magnitude of the overdose crisis and the reverberations it has among children and families," said Miriam E. Delphin-Rittmon, the leader of SAMHSA (Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration).

As per the study published in JAMA Psychiatry, the rate of children who experienced this momentous loss more than doubled between 2011 and 2021 — from 27 to 63 children per 100,000.

<h2>The communities affected</h2>

Of this, the highest numbers were of children with non-Hispanic white parents. However, communities of colour and tribal communities were also found to be disproportionately affected.

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According to a press release, American Indian/Alaska Native children have the highest rate of parent loss due to overdose (187/100,000) from 2011 to 2021, twice that of White and Black children (76.5/100,000 and 73/100,000 respectively).

"It is devastating to see that almost half of the people who died of a drug overdose had a child. No family should lose their loved one to an overdose, and each of these deaths represents a tragic loss that could have been prevented," said Nora Volkow, MD, National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) director.&nbsp;

"These findings emphasise the need to better support parents in accessing prevention, treatment, and recovery services. In addition, any child who loses a parent to overdose must receive the care and support they need to navigate this painful and traumatic experience."

(With inputs from agencies)

Drug abuse is increasingly claiming the lives of numerous parents, leaving hundreds of thousands of children orphan, revealed a new study. As per the National Institute on Drug Abuse, between 2011 and 2021, over 321,000 children lost a parent to drug overdose in the United States.

Drug abuse is increasingly claiming the lives of numerous parents, leaving hundreds of thousands of children orphan, revealed a new study. As per the National Institute on Drug Abuse, between 2011 and 2021, over 321,000 children lost a parent to drug overdose in the United States. First of its kind study on loss The study is the first of its kind to shine a light on the number of children affected by the overdose crisis in America. Between 2011 and 2021, 649,599 people aged 18 to 64 died from a drug overdose. This translates to an estimated 321,566 children losing a parent. Also read | Advances in artificial intelligence mean 'deadbots' can 'haunt' the living, warn experts. Here's what it means Despite these tragic numbers, no national study had previously estimated the number of children who lost a parent to drug overdose. "This first-of-its-kind study allows us to better understand the tragic magnitude of the overdose crisis and the reverberations it has among children and families," said Miriam E. Delphin-Rittmon, the leader of SAMHSA (Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration). As per the study published in JAMA Psychiatry, the rate of children who experienced this momentous loss more than doubled between 2011 and 2021 — from 27 to 63 children per 100,000. The communities affected Of this, the highest numbers were of children with non-Hispanic white parents. However, communities of colour and tribal communities were also found to be disproportionately affected. Also read | Have we 'already lost climate battle'?: April continues damning 11-month trend, emerges as hottest since 1940 According to a press release, American Indian/Alaska Native children have the highest rate of parent loss due to overdose (187/100,000) from 2011 to 2021, twice that of White and Black children (76.5/100,000 and 73/100,000 respectively). "It is devastating to see that almost half of the people who died of a drug overdose had a child. No family should lose their loved one to an overdose, and each of these deaths represents a tragic loss that could have been prevented," said Nora Volkow, MD, National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) director. "These findings emphasise the need to better support parents in accessing prevention, treatment, and recovery services. In addition, any child who loses a parent to overdose must receive the care and support they need to navigate this painful and traumatic experience." (With inputs from agencies)

Heartbreaking! Over 321,000 children lost a parent to America's drug epidemic between 2011-2021

A "thrill-seeking experience" went awry as an 18-year-old girl in the northern Indian city of Lucknow died due to an alleged drug overdose by a friend. The local police said that the male friend took her to a vacant plot in Tiwariganj in Uttar Pradesh's capital and injected her with a mixture of medicine and an addictive drug.&nbsp;

Local reports have mentioned that the incident on April 7 took place when the victim was on the way to catch a train to Bengaluru, where she had a private job. She had reached Lucknow on April 3.&nbsp;

"The accused Vivek Maurya, 28, of Barabanki has been arrested. He was staying at Mahanagar and was friends with the victim," said Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) (Vibhuti Khand) Anindya Vikram Singh.&nbsp;

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The ACP added that an initial first information report (FIR) was filed under IPC Section 302 (murder), however, during the investigation it was converted to IPC Section 304 (culpable homicide not amounting to murder).&nbsp;

The police said that the girl's condition had gotten worse after consuming the "cocktail overdose". Some reports mentioned that the man was also heavily intoxicated.&nbsp;

To get help, the man contacted the emergency control room. The girl was rushed to the Ram Manohar Lohia Hospital. She was declared dead after doctors conducted an ECG. Her body was sent for post-mortem examination.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/end-of-cross-border-love-story-this-is-what-seema-haider-said-about-viral-video-that-shows-her-beaten-up-709297">End of cross-border love story? THIS is what Seema Haider said about viral video that shows her beaten up</a>&nbsp;

Police said that the girl's family expressed apprehension and alleged that the drug overdose could have been done deliberately to murder her.&nbsp;

The man claimed that the girl had asked him about the drugs and sought to consume them.&nbsp;

The accused panicked after her death and fled the hospital, but was later arrested.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

A "thrill-seeking experience" went awry as an 18-year-old girl in the northern Indian city of Lucknow died due to an alleged drug overdose by a friend. The local police said that the male friend took her to a vacant plot in Tiwariganj in Uttar Pradesh's capital and injected her with a mixture of medicine and an addictive drug.

A "thrill-seeking experience" went awry as an 18-year-old girl in the northern Indian city of Lucknow died due to an alleged drug overdose by a friend. The local police said that the male friend took her to a vacant plot in Tiwariganj in Uttar Pradesh's capital and injected her with a mixture of medicine and an addictive drug. Local reports have mentioned that the incident on April 7 took place when the victim was on the way to catch a train to Bengaluru, where she had a private job. She had reached Lucknow on April 3. "The accused Vivek Maurya, 28, of Barabanki has been arrested. He was staying at Mahanagar and was friends with the victim," said Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) (Vibhuti Khand) Anindya Vikram Singh. Also read: Two Akasa Air fliers arrested for ‘nuclear bomb’ threat at Delhi airport The ACP added that an initial first information report (FIR) was filed under IPC Section 302 (murder), however, during the investigation it was converted to IPC Section 304 (culpable homicide not amounting to murder). The police said that the girl's condition had gotten worse after consuming the "cocktail overdose". Some reports mentioned that the man was also heavily intoxicated. To get help, the man contacted the emergency control room. The girl was rushed to the Ram Manohar Lohia Hospital. She was declared dead after doctors conducted an ECG. Her body was sent for post-mortem examination. Also read: End of cross-border love story? THIS is what Seema Haider said about viral video that shows her beaten up Police said that the girl's family expressed apprehension and alleged that the drug overdose could have been done deliberately to murder her. The man claimed that the girl had asked him about the drugs and sought to consume them. The accused panicked after her death and fled the hospital, but was later arrested. (With inputs from agencies)

‘Thrill-seeking experiment’ turns deadly as 18-year-old girl dies of ‘cocktail drug overdose’ in Lucknow

A prescription drug commonly called "gas station heroin" is causing concern in the United States with the Food and Drug Administration putting fresh focus on the issue. The drug named tianeptine is a synthetic drug approved in some countries for treatment of depression, and mimics opioids like fentanyl and has a potential to form habit. In the US, it is available easily in convenience stores, smoke shops, gas stations or even online.

Reports have said that in addition to having risk of addiction, tianeptine may cause withdrawal symptoms and carries risk of overdose. It has been reported that the drug may also cause seizures, psychosis, kidney damage and may even lead to death.

Since 2022, USFDA has been vocal about urging consumers in the US to avoid the drug. However, it has been seen that vendors continue to promote the drug as dietary supplement.&nbsp;

This has happened in spite of FDA explicitly saying that tianeptine "does not meet the statutory definition of a dietary ingredient and is an unsafe food additive."

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Last week, the USFDA cautioned consumers again about tianeptine, which is a component of products like Neptune's Fix, Za Za Red and Tianaa.

"These products may interact, in life-threatening ways, with other medications a consumer may be taking. The agency is actively investigating adverse event reports in conjunction with local and state health departments," USFDA warned in its report.

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The agency also said that Neptune Resources&nbsp;LLC had voluntarily agreed to recall Neptune Fix Elixir, Neptune Fix Extra Strength Elixir and Neptune's Fix tablets from consumer level.

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"Consumers, distributors and retailers that have these products should either dispose of them or return them to place of purchase immediately," USFDA warned.

"FDA sent a letter on Jan. 11, 2024, to convenience store, gas station and other organizations urging retailers to stop selling Neptune’s Fix and any other tianeptine-containing products," the agency added.

(With inputs from agencies)

A prescription drug commonly called "gas station heroin" is causing concern in the United States with the Food and Drug Administration putting fresh focus on the issue.

A prescription drug commonly called "gas station heroin" is causing concern in the United States with the Food and Drug Administration putting fresh focus on the issue. The drug named tianeptine is a synthetic drug approved in some countries for treatment of depression, and mimics opioids like fentanyl and has a potential to form habit. In the US, it is available easily in convenience stores, smoke shops, gas stations or even online. Reports have said that in addition to having risk of addiction, tianeptine may cause withdrawal symptoms and carries risk of overdose. It has been reported that the drug may also cause seizures, psychosis, kidney damage and may even lead to death. Since 2022, USFDA has been vocal about urging consumers in the US to avoid the drug. However, it has been seen that vendors continue to promote the drug as dietary supplement. This has happened in spite of FDA explicitly saying that tianeptine "does not meet the statutory definition of a dietary ingredient and is an unsafe food additive." Watch | Elon Musk's Neuralink implants brain chip in human for the first time × Last week, the USFDA cautioned consumers again about tianeptine, which is a component of products like Neptune's Fix, Za Za Red and Tianaa. "These products may interact, in life-threatening ways, with other medications a consumer may be taking. The agency is actively investigating adverse event reports in conjunction with local and state health departments," USFDA warned in its report. Also Read | NASA's Hubble Telescope finds water vapour in distant planet's atmosphere The agency also said that Neptune Resources LLC had voluntarily agreed to recall Neptune Fix Elixir, Neptune Fix Extra Strength Elixir and Neptune's Fix tablets from consumer level. Also Read | Hermit crabs found using discarded plastic waste as form of armour "Consumers, distributors and retailers that have these products should either dispose of them or return them to place of purchase immediately," USFDA warned. "FDA sent a letter on Jan. 11, 2024, to convenience store, gas station and other organizations urging retailers to stop selling Neptune’s Fix and any other tianeptine-containing products," the agency added. (With inputs from agencies)

‘Gas station heroin’ comes into renewed focus after USFDA warning

Eight young people were placed in medically induced comas after they had an overdose of suspected MDMA at a music festival in Melbourne, Australia over the weekend. The incident has increased calls for the legalisation of pill testing in the state.&nbsp;

Paramedics, who were present at the Hardmission electronic music festival organised at Flemington racecourse on Saturday (Jan 6), admitted nine festivalgoers to different hospitals across Melbourne.&nbsp;

Victorian Ambulance Union said that eight people were put in medical induced comas and breathing tubes were inserted in their throats.

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“These would have been some of the sickest patients our paramedics would deal with, short of going into cardiac arrest,” said Danny Hill, the Victorian Ambulance Union’s secretary, as reported by The Guardian.&nbsp;

“They were really, really sick. You had patients with high temperatures – some over 41 degrees and seizure activity. In order to be transported, [paramedics] have to do an intervention that is normally left for patients suffering a head injury or a stroke," he added.

<h2>Not normal for a high number of people to fall sick at event: Hill</h2>

Hill said that it was not normal for a high number of people to fall sick at an event. “I don’t think we’ve seen it for some years, if ever,” he added.&nbsp;

The temperature on Saturday (Jan 6) soared to 32ºC, however, Hill said that MDMA can also increase the blood pressure and body temperature of a person.&nbsp;

“They’re already in a dangerous situation and no doubt that was compounded by the environment,” he said, while speaking to The Guardian.&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;Australia: After the floods came the bushfires

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The patients were admitted to the Sunshine, Royal Melbourne, Austin, Footscray and St Vincent’s hospitals. Royal Melbourne Hospital's spokesperson said that two patients were in critical condition.&nbsp;

Hill said that he hoped the event of Saturday would further push people to reconsider pill testing in Victoria.

“These drugs are not made in batches of seven or eight tablets. They’re made in batches of hundreds or thousands so there are many more of these deadly tablets out there. And there are many more of these raves throughout the summer season. It can only help to bring in pill-testing and try to intercept the drug use as close as you can to the person using the drug," Hill said.

(With inputs from agencies)

Eight young people were placed in medically induced comas after they had an overdose of suspected MDMA at a music festival in Melbourne, Australia over the weekend.

Eight young people were placed in medically induced comas after they had an overdose of suspected MDMA at a music festival in Melbourne, Australia over the weekend. The incident has increased calls for the legalisation of pill testing in the state. Paramedics, who were present at the Hardmission electronic music festival organised at Flemington racecourse on Saturday (Jan 6), admitted nine festivalgoers to different hospitals across Melbourne. Victorian Ambulance Union said that eight people were put in medical induced comas and breathing tubes were inserted in their throats. Also read: Australia's ban on Nazi salute, public display of terror group symbols kicks into effect “These would have been some of the sickest patients our paramedics would deal with, short of going into cardiac arrest,” said Danny Hill, the Victorian Ambulance Union’s secretary, as reported by The Guardian. “They were really, really sick. You had patients with high temperatures – some over 41 degrees and seizure activity. In order to be transported, [paramedics] have to do an intervention that is normally left for patients suffering a head injury or a stroke," he added. Not normal for a high number of people to fall sick at event: Hill Hill said that it was not normal for a high number of people to fall sick at an event. “I don’t think we’ve seen it for some years, if ever,” he added. The temperature on Saturday (Jan 6) soared to 32ºC, however, Hill said that MDMA can also increase the blood pressure and body temperature of a person. “They’re already in a dangerous situation and no doubt that was compounded by the environment,” he said, while speaking to The Guardian. Watch: Australia: After the floods came the bushfires The patients were admitted to the Sunshine, Royal Melbourne, Austin, Footscray and St Vincent’s hospitals. Royal Melbourne Hospital's spokesperson said that two patients were in critical condition. Hill said that he hoped the event of Saturday would further push people to reconsider pill testing in Victoria. “These drugs are not made in batches of seven or eight tablets. They’re made in batches of hundreds or thousands so there are many more of these deadly tablets out there. And there are many more of these raves throughout the summer season. It can only help to bring in pill-testing and try to intercept the drug use as close as you can to the person using the drug," Hill said. (With inputs from agencies)

Australia: Eight people placed in induced coma after suspected overdose of MDMA at music festival

A faction of Mexico’s dreaded gang <a name="_Hlk147259235">Sinaloa </a>put up banners across the state declaring that they have stopped the production and sale&nbsp;of fentanyl — a drug that is more potent than heroin.

The decree was reported ordered by the sons of ex-Mexican drug lord Joaquin "El Chapo" Guzman.

On Monday, the banners, also called "narcomantas", appeared in the northern Sinaloa state, Reuters news agency reported.

The banners were signed by Los Chapitos — a grouping of brothers who took over their father's criminal empire when Guzman was extradited to the United States in 2017. The sons are known as “the Chapitos” after their famous father.

“In Sinaloa, the sale, manufacture, transport or any other business dealing with fentanyl, is strictly prohibited, including the sale of chemicals used to produce it,” the banners read. “You have been warned. Respectfully, Chapitos.”

<h2>US pressure on Mexico</h2>

The banners appeared at a time when US authorities are ramping up pressure on Mexico to take action against crime groups involved in fentanyl production.

This year, the US government declared the "little Chapos" as the principal providers of fentanyl into the United States.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, an estimated 109,680 overdose deaths occurred last year in the United States, and about 75,000 of those were linked to fentanyl and other synthetic opioids.

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US prosecutors allege much of the production occurs in and around the state capital, Culiacan, where the Sinaloa cartel exerts near complete control.

<h2>Doubts over banners</h2>

It is unclear who put up the banners, but the experts have cast doubts over its authenticity arguing that fentanyl remains one of the cartel’s biggest money makers.

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A former US Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) agent who worked in Mexico, Leo Silva, told the Reuters news agency that the banners were likely an attempt by Chapitos to shift the blame for fentanyl production on to others.

"Coupled with extradition of one of the brothers, it's a ploy to take the heat off of them. I don't see them stopping production," Silva said.

(With inputs from agencies)

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A faction of Mexico’s dreaded gang Sinaloa put up banners across the state declaring that they have stopped the production and sale of fentanyl — a drug that is more potent than heroin.

A faction of Mexico’s dreaded gang Sinaloa put up banners across the state declaring that they have stopped the production and sale of fentanyl — a drug that is more potent than heroin. The decree was reported ordered by the sons of ex-Mexican drug lord Joaquin "El Chapo" Guzman. On Monday, the banners, also called "narcomantas", appeared in the northern Sinaloa state, Reuters news agency reported. The banners were signed by Los Chapitos — a grouping of brothers who took over their father's criminal empire when Guzman was extradited to the United States in 2017. The sons are known as “the Chapitos” after their famous father. “In Sinaloa, the sale, manufacture, transport or any other business dealing with fentanyl, is strictly prohibited, including the sale of chemicals used to produce it,” the banners read. “You have been warned. Respectfully, Chapitos.” US pressure on Mexico The banners appeared at a time when US authorities are ramping up pressure on Mexico to take action against crime groups involved in fentanyl production. This year, the US government declared the "little Chapos" as the principal providers of fentanyl into the United States. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, an estimated 109,680 overdose deaths occurred last year in the United States, and about 75,000 of those were linked to fentanyl and other synthetic opioids. Also read | Nobel Prize in Physics awarded to Agostini, Krausz and L’Huillier US prosecutors allege much of the production occurs in and around the state capital, Culiacan, where the Sinaloa cartel exerts near complete control. Doubts over banners It is unclear who put up the banners, but the experts have cast doubts over its authenticity arguing that fentanyl remains one of the cartel’s biggest money makers. Also read | Dutch scientist’s prediction of earthquake on Oct 3 turns out be accurate, but… A former US Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) agent who worked in Mexico, Leo Silva, told the Reuters news agency that the banners were likely an attempt by Chapitos to shift the blame for fentanyl production on to others. "Coupled with extradition of one of the brothers, it's a ploy to take the heat off of them. I don't see them stopping production," Silva said. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Mexico’s dreaded Sinaloa cartel ‘puts up’ banners announcing to stop sale of fentanyl

The United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA), on Friday (July 28) approved the sale of a second opioid overdose reversal drug called RiVive, said the US government agency, in a statement. It was also the first version of over-the-counter naloxone from a nonprofit company which could lead to cheap and even free doses for those in need.

<h2>Approval of RiVive</h2>

The approval of the prescription-free sale of the second opioid overdose reversal drug, RiVive, will provide patients with another over-the-counter option for emergency treatment of known or suspected opioid overdose.&nbsp;

The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends quickly administering Narcan – the only over-the-counter FDA-approved option until now – which consists of an active drug called naloxone, a life-saving medication and nasal spray used to counter the overdose effects.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-one-person-was-killed-every-10-hours-due-to-drug-related-overdose-this-year-in-san-francisco-587112">Every 10 hours, one person died due to drug-related overdose, in San Francisco this year: Report</a>

Narcan, which was approved in March is available in all 50 states and can be procured without a prescription in most states.

Similarly, RiVive, which is also a nasal spray version of the drug naloxone, rapidly reverses or blocks the effects of opioids – especially when administered within minutes of the first signs of an overdose – restoring normal respiration.&nbsp;

“We know naloxone is a powerful tool to help quickly reverse the effects of opioids during an overdose. Ensuring naloxone is widely available, especially as an approved OTC product, makes a critical tool available to help protect public health,” said FDA Commissioner Robert&nbsp;Califf, in a statement.&nbsp;

He added, “The agency has long prioritised access to naloxone products, and we welcome manufacturers of other naloxone products to discuss potential nonprescription development programs with the FDA.”&nbsp;

<h2>When will it be available?</h2>

The RiVive’s manufacturer Harm Reduction Therapeutics, a nonprofit pharmaceutical company, said that the opioid overdose reversal drug might be available early next year, primarily to harm-reduction organisations and state governments, reported Reuters. The organisation will also make at least 200,000 doses available for free.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-imposes-sanctions-on-chinese-mexican-entities-in-fentanyl-action-as-crisis-deepens-598681">US imposes sanctions on Chinese, Mexican entities in fentanyl action as crisis deepens</a>

“If we are able to have partners step forward and help fund our work, we can further lower the cost of RiVive, or increase the amount that we give away for free,” said co-founder and CEO Michael Hufford, as quoted by the news agency.&nbsp;

<h2>Drug overdose in US</h2>

RiVive is the second over-the-counter naloxone product approved by the FDA this year. According to the US government agency, more than 105,000 reported fatal overdoses occurred in the 12-month period ending in February 2023. These deaths have predominantly been attributed to synthetic opioids like <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-fentanyl-seized-in-2022-enough-to-kill-every-american-says-us-federal-drug-agency-545087">illicit fentanyl</a>. 
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The United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA), on Friday (July 28) approved the sale of a second opioid overdose reversal drug called RiVive, said the US government agency, in a statement.

The United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA), on Friday (July 28) approved the sale of a second opioid overdose reversal drug called RiVive, said the US government agency, in a statement. It was also the first version of over-the-counter naloxone from a nonprofit company which could lead to cheap and even free doses for those in need. Approval of RiVive The approval of the prescription-free sale of the second opioid overdose reversal drug, RiVive, will provide patients with another over-the-counter option for emergency treatment of known or suspected opioid overdose. The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends quickly administering Narcan – the only over-the-counter FDA-approved option until now – which consists of an active drug called naloxone, a life-saving medication and nasal spray used to counter the overdose effects. ALSO READ | Every 10 hours, one person died due to drug-related overdose, in San Francisco this year: Report Narcan, which was approved in March is available in all 50 states and can be procured without a prescription in most states. Similarly, RiVive, which is also a nasal spray version of the drug naloxone, rapidly reverses or blocks the effects of opioids – especially when administered within minutes of the first signs of an overdose – restoring normal respiration. “We know naloxone is a powerful tool to help quickly reverse the effects of opioids during an overdose. Ensuring naloxone is widely available, especially as an approved OTC product, makes a critical tool available to help protect public health,” said FDA Commissioner Robert Califf, in a statement. He added, “The agency has long prioritised access to naloxone products, and we welcome manufacturers of other naloxone products to discuss potential nonprescription development programs with the FDA.” When will it be available? The RiVive’s manufacturer Harm Reduction Therapeutics, a nonprofit pharmaceutical company, said that the opioid overdose reversal drug might be available early next year, primarily to harm-reduction organisations and state governments, reported Reuters. The organisation will also make at least 200,000 doses available for free. ALSO READ | US imposes sanctions on Chinese, Mexican entities in fentanyl action as crisis deepens “If we are able to have partners step forward and help fund our work, we can further lower the cost of RiVive, or increase the amount that we give away for free,” said co-founder and CEO Michael Hufford, as quoted by the news agency. Drug overdose in US RiVive is the second over-the-counter naloxone product approved by the FDA this year. According to the US government agency, more than 105,000 reported fatal overdoses occurred in the 12-month period ending in February 2023. These deaths have predominantly been attributed to synthetic opioids like illicit fentanyl. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

US: FDA approves 'RiVive', second over-the-counter opioid overdose reversal drug

The Scottish government has proposed legalizing drug possession for personal use in an effort to address drug overdose deaths. The plan aims to treat and support individuals found in possession of drugs instead of criminalizing them.

Scottish govt. proposes radical drug decriminalization to deal with overdose deaths

A horrific new 'zombie' drug that has devastated cities throughout the United States has been discovered in the United Kingdom and has claimed the life of a British factory&nbsp;worker.

Karl Warburton, 43, died in May from the effects of xylazine coupled with other narcotics&nbsp;such as heroin, fentanyl, and cocaine, reported Daily Mail.

The West Midlands man died of acute aspiration pneumonitis, a disease commonly caused by breathing pollutants.&nbsp;However, xylazine was recorded as a contributing factor in&nbsp;Warburton's death certificate.&nbsp;

The technically&nbsp;legal animal tranquilizer "tranq" is frequently used to cut cocaine, heroin, or fentanyl dependence. As it grows in popularity in the illegal drug market, contributing to an increasing number of overdose deaths, states in the United States are increasingly attempting to restrict access to it.

The substance enforcement administration and health authorities have issued cautions against using the substance. While the problem is most visible in Los Angeles, Canadian officials have also warned that tranq is making its way onto their&nbsp;streets.

Here's everything you need to know about tranq, including why it's referred to as a flesh-eating zombie medicine and how the United States is&nbsp;trying to regulate it.

<h2>What is Xylazine?</h2>

Xylazine is a veterinary medication that is licenced for use as a sedative in large&nbsp;animals. Rompun and Anased are two of its brand names. It is sometimes referred to as a "horse tranquilizer."

It needs a veterinarian licence to buy and use, but it is rapidly appearing in Canada's illicit drug supply, frequently without the user's awareness. Other medicines are cut with xylazine since it is an inexpensive filler that can improve opioid potency.

<h2>What effect does tranq have on people?</h2>

In humans, xylazine has sedative properties. It alleviates pain, lowers brain activity, and has the potential to lower blood pressure, heart rate, and breathing rate.

People who use xylazine may develop open sores anywhere on their body. These wounds can result in hospitalisation, necrosis (rotting tissue), and even amputation, which is why it is referred to as a zombie drug.

The drug's wounds look to be "eating away your flesh from the inside out," according to nurses who spoke to Stat News.

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;Gravitas: What is the 'Zombie drug'?

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Overdoes are also more likely with drugs like fentanyl that have been cut with xylazine. According to Health Canada, xylazine can cause central nervous system depression, respiratory depression, bradycardia, and hypotension in humans, which are comparable to opioid withdrawal symptoms.

“When combined with opioids like fentanyl, as is frequently the case, xylazine enhances the life-threatening effect of respiratory depression (slowing or stopping breathing) caused by opioids, increasing the risk of overdose and death,” according to&nbsp;Los Angeles public health officials, as reported by the National Post.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/fentanyl-blend-with-xylazine-the-vet-medicine-causes-havoc-in-us-hot-drug-zones-551423">Fentanyl blend with xylazine, the vet medicine, causes havoc in US hot drug zones</a>

Unlike fentanyl, no medication or antidote is available to reverse xylazine overdose, like naloxone does for opioids. Experts still recommend that naxolone be administered in the event of a xylazine overdose if opioids are present.

“Tranq is basically zombifying people’s bodies,” 28-year-old Sam told Sky News. “Until nine months ago, I never had wounds. Now, there are holes in my legs and feet.”

The New York City Department of Health said that 2,668 individuals in New York died in 2021 as a result of xylazine overdoses, and experts worry that the medication might exacerbate the country's current drug pandemic.

<h2>How are US&nbsp;states responding?</h2>

Many states in the United States have implemented different measures to limit the spread of the substance.&nbsp;

Pennsylvania has added xylazine to its list of banned substances in an effort to strengthen drug restrictions and empower police to prosecute individuals who break them.

“We are giving greater tools to law enforcement and others to properly regulate, control and contain these drugs, make arrests and hopefully prosecutions,” Democratic Gov. Josh Shapiro said at a news conference in Philadelphia.

Ohio's Republican governor signed an executive order banning xylazine through the state's Board of Pharmacy in March, while West Virginia's Republican governor signed legislation making it a restricted substance.

The designations in Pennsylvania, Ohio, and West Virginia enable veterinarians to continue using the medicine to sedate animals, but they impose stricter requirements on how the drug must be handled, recorded, and kept.

“Xylazine is making the deadliest drug threat our country has ever faced, fentanyl, even deadlier,” said Anne Milgram, DEA Administrator, who spoke to the National host.&nbsp;

“DEA has seized xylazine and fentanyl mixtures in 48 of 50 States. The DEA Laboratory System is reporting that in 2022 approximately 23 per cent of fentanyl powder and seven per cent of fentanyl pills seized by the DEA contained xylazine,” she added.&nbsp;

<h2>Does naloxone work on xylazine overdoses?&nbsp;</h2>

Xylazine does not react to naloxone, but that doesn't imply the opioid-reversing medicine can't be useful if a bystander witnesses an overdose, according to specialists, because xylazine is used in combination with opioids that will react to naloxone. While xylazine has been found in fatal overdoses, it is unknown how much the sedative had a role in the person's death because it is taken in combination with heavier opioids.&nbsp;

Claire Zagorski, a chemist, paramedic and translational scientist in Austin, Texas who spoke to CBS News said&nbsp;that administering naloxone to someone who is not experiencing an opioid overdose would not harm them, hence it is preferable for a bystander to do so if feasible.&nbsp; 
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A horrific new 'zombie' drug that has devastated cities throughout the United States has been discovered in the United Kingdom and has claimed the life of a British factory worker.

A horrific new 'zombie' drug that has devastated cities throughout the United States has been discovered in the United Kingdom and has claimed the life of a British factory worker. Karl Warburton, 43, died in May from the effects of xylazine coupled with other narcotics such as heroin, fentanyl, and cocaine, reported Daily Mail. The West Midlands man died of acute aspiration pneumonitis, a disease commonly caused by breathing pollutants. However, xylazine was recorded as a contributing factor in Warburton's death certificate. The technically legal animal tranquilizer "tranq" is frequently used to cut cocaine, heroin, or fentanyl dependence. As it grows in popularity in the illegal drug market, contributing to an increasing number of overdose deaths, states in the United States are increasingly attempting to restrict access to it. The substance enforcement administration and health authorities have issued cautions against using the substance. While the problem is most visible in Los Angeles, Canadian officials have also warned that tranq is making its way onto their streets. Here's everything you need to know about tranq, including why it's referred to as a flesh-eating zombie medicine and how the United States is trying to regulate it. What is Xylazine? Xylazine is a veterinary medication that is licenced for use as a sedative in large animals. Rompun and Anased are two of its brand names. It is sometimes referred to as a "horse tranquilizer." It needs a veterinarian licence to buy and use, but it is rapidly appearing in Canada's illicit drug supply, frequently without the user's awareness. Other medicines are cut with xylazine since it is an inexpensive filler that can improve opioid potency. What effect does tranq have on people? In humans, xylazine has sedative properties. It alleviates pain, lowers brain activity, and has the potential to lower blood pressure, heart rate, and breathing rate. People who use xylazine may develop open sores anywhere on their body. These wounds can result in hospitalisation, necrosis (rotting tissue), and even amputation, which is why it is referred to as a zombie drug. The drug's wounds look to be "eating away your flesh from the inside out," according to nurses who spoke to Stat News. ALSO WATCH | Gravitas: What is the 'Zombie drug'? Overdoes are also more likely with drugs like fentanyl that have been cut with xylazine. According to Health Canada, xylazine can cause central nervous system depression, respiratory depression, bradycardia, and hypotension in humans, which are comparable to opioid withdrawal symptoms. “When combined with opioids like fentanyl, as is frequently the case, xylazine enhances the life-threatening effect of respiratory depression (slowing or stopping breathing) caused by opioids, increasing the risk of overdose and death,” according to Los Angeles public health officials, as reported by the National Post. ALSO READ | Fentanyl blend with xylazine, the vet medicine, causes havoc in US hot drug zones Unlike fentanyl, no medication or antidote is available to reverse xylazine overdose, like naloxone does for opioids. Experts still recommend that naxolone be administered in the event of a xylazine overdose if opioids are present. “Tranq is basically zombifying people’s bodies,” 28-year-old Sam told Sky News. “Until nine months ago, I never had wounds. Now, there are holes in my legs and feet.” The New York City Department of Health said that 2,668 individuals in New York died in 2021 as a result of xylazine overdoses, and experts worry that the medication might exacerbate the country's current drug pandemic. How are US states responding? Many states in the United States have implemented different measures to limit the spread of the substance. Pennsylvania has added xylazine to its list of banned substances in an effort to strengthen drug restrictions and empower police to prosecute individuals who break them. “We are giving greater tools to law enforcement and others to properly regulate, control and contain these drugs, make arrests and hopefully prosecutions,” Democratic Gov. Josh Shapiro said at a news conference in Philadelphia. Ohio's Republican governor signed an executive order banning xylazine through the state's Board of Pharmacy in March, while West Virginia's Republican governor signed legislation making it a restricted substance. The designations in Pennsylvania, Ohio, and West Virginia enable veterinarians to continue using the medicine to sedate animals, but they impose stricter requirements on how the drug must be handled, recorded, and kept. “Xylazine is making the deadliest drug threat our country has ever faced, fentanyl, even deadlier,” said Anne Milgram, DEA Administrator, who spoke to the National host. “DEA has seized xylazine and fentanyl mixtures in 48 of 50 States. The DEA Laboratory System is reporting that in 2022 approximately 23 per cent of fentanyl powder and seven per cent of fentanyl pills seized by the DEA contained xylazine,” she added. Does naloxone work on xylazine overdoses? Xylazine does not react to naloxone, but that doesn't imply the opioid-reversing medicine can't be useful if a bystander witnesses an overdose, according to specialists, because xylazine is used in combination with opioids that will react to naloxone. While xylazine has been found in fatal overdoses, it is unknown how much the sedative had a role in the person's death because it is taken in combination with heavier opioids. Claire Zagorski, a chemist, paramedic and translational scientist in Austin, Texas who spoke to CBS News said that administering naloxone to someone who is not experiencing an opioid overdose would not harm them, hence it is preferable for a bystander to do so if feasible. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Explained: What is Xylazine? Flesh-eating ‘zombie’ medicine fuelling overdose deaths across US

With easy availability, Fentanyl overdose is a major concern in the US. Social media is being used to crack drug deals as agencies try to control the menace.

Fentanyl overdose major concern in the US as its easy availability causes an alarm

An Oklahoma doctor recently said that overdoses of the anti-parasitic drug ivermectin, which many believe without evidence can prevent or cure COVID-19, are helping cause delays and problems for rural hospitals and ambulance services.&nbsp;

The drug is used to kill internal and external parasites in livestock animals and, in smaller doses, in humans.

Dr Jason McElyea told KFOR, an Oklahoma TV station, "There’s a reason you have to have a doctor to get a prescription for this stuff, because it can be dangerous".

He added, "The [emergency rooms] are so backed up that gunshot victims were having hard times getting to facilities where they can get definitive care and be treated.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/auckland-knife-attacker-was-on-deportation-notice-reveals-new-zealand-pm-jacinda-ardern-410772">Also read |&nbsp;Auckland knife attacker was on deportation notice, reveals New Zealand PM Jacinda Ardern</a>

“Ambulances are stuck at the hospital waiting for a bed to open so they can take the patient in and they don’t have any, that’s it. If there’s no ambulance to take the call, there’s no ambulance to come to the call.”

Oklahoma, currently, is struggling to cope with a surge in hospitalisations and deaths caused by the Delta virus variant.&nbsp;

As per reports by the Johns Hopkins University, in the past week Oklahoma has recorded more than 18,400 cases and 189 deaths.&nbsp;

The same source puts the death toll in Oklahoma over 8,000, out of more than 647,000 across the US.

An Oklahoma doctor recently said that overdoses of the anti-parasitic drug ivermectin, which many believe without evidence can prevent or cure COVID-19, are helping cause delays and problems for rural hospitals and ambulance services.

An Oklahoma doctor recently said that overdoses of the anti-parasitic drug ivermectin, which many believe without evidence can prevent or cure COVID-19, are helping cause delays and problems for rural hospitals and ambulance services. The drug is used to kill internal and external parasites in livestock animals and, in smaller doses, in humans. Dr Jason McElyea told KFOR, an Oklahoma TV station, "There’s a reason you have to have a doctor to get a prescription for this stuff, because it can be dangerous". He added, "The [emergency rooms] are so backed up that gunshot victims were having hard times getting to facilities where they can get definitive care and be treated. Also read | Auckland knife attacker was on deportation notice, reveals New Zealand PM Jacinda Ardern “Ambulances are stuck at the hospital waiting for a bed to open so they can take the patient in and they don’t have any, that’s it. If there’s no ambulance to take the call, there’s no ambulance to come to the call.” Oklahoma, currently, is struggling to cope with a surge in hospitalisations and deaths caused by the Delta virus variant. As per reports by the Johns Hopkins University, in the past week Oklahoma has recorded more than 18,400 cases and 189 deaths. The same source puts the death toll in Oklahoma over 8,000, out of more than 647,000 across the US.

Oklahoma hospitals deluged by ivermectin overdoses

Music superstar&nbsp;Prince, who was found dead in his home in a Minneapolis suburb in late April,&nbsp;died&nbsp;of an&nbsp;accidental, self-administered&nbsp;overdose&nbsp;of an opioid painkiller, the county&nbsp;medical&nbsp;examiner&nbsp;said in a death report on Thursday.

The Midwest&nbsp;Medical&nbsp;Examiner&#39;s Office in Anoka County, Minnesota, had been investigating the 57-year-old&nbsp;singer&#39;s death since he was discovered in an elevator in his home and studio on April 21.

&quot;The decedent self-administered fentanyl,&quot; the&nbsp;medical&nbsp;examiner&#39;s report said,&nbsp;listing cause of death as &quot;fentanyl toxicity&quot;, and noting it was&nbsp;accidental.

The investigation into&nbsp;Prince&#39;s death has centered on&nbsp;painkillers after prescription opioid medication was found at the scene and after reports he had been struggling with an addiction and had been scheduled to meet with a doctor who specializes in treating dependency.

Fentanyl is a highly addictive opiate that is more powerful than morphine and is used to treat patients with severe pain, often after surgeries. It took weeks for officials to release the cause of death because they were waiting for the results of toxicity tests.

The Minneapolis Star Tribune said it was not clear whether fentanyl had been prescribed to Prince&nbsp;and if so, which doctor prescribed it.

Fentanyl is often sold illegally and the U.S. Centers for Disease Control has said that rising drug overdose&nbsp;deaths in the United States are linked to increased use of illicitly manufactured fentanyl.

The local prosecutor, Carver County Attorney Mark Metz, said the county sheriff&#39;s office continues to investigate&nbsp;Prince&#39;s death, assisted by federal authorities, but at this point has not handed over the results of the probe to prosecutors.

&quot;They will be looking at many different things,&quot; Metz told Reuters by telephone.

Prince, whose full name was&nbsp;Prince&nbsp;Rogers Nelson, did not leave a will, and his multimillion-dollar estate including royalties from his more than 30 albums is being handled by a court. The songwriter&#39;s hits include &quot;Purple Rain&quot; and &quot;When Doves Cry.&quot;

Music superstar?Prince, who was found dead in late April,?died?of an?accidental, self-administered?overdose?of an opioid painkiller, the county?medical?examiner?said in a death report on Thursday

Music superstar Prince, who was found dead in his home in a Minneapolis suburb in late April, died of an accidental, self-administered overdose of an opioid painkiller, the county medical examiner said in a death report on Thursday. The Midwest Medical Examiner's Office in Anoka County, Minnesota, had been investigating the 57-year-old singer's death since he was discovered in an elevator in his home and studio on April 21. "The decedent self-administered fentanyl," the medical examiner's report said, listing cause of death as "fentanyl toxicity", and noting it was accidental. The investigation into Prince's death has centered on painkillers after prescription opioid medication was found at the scene and after reports he had been struggling with an addiction and had been scheduled to meet with a doctor who specializes in treating dependency. Fentanyl is a highly addictive opiate that is more powerful than morphine and is used to treat patients with severe pain, often after surgeries. It took weeks for officials to release the cause of death because they were waiting for the results of toxicity tests. The Minneapolis Star Tribune said it was not clear whether fentanyl had been prescribed to Prince and if so, which doctor prescribed it. Fentanyl is often sold illegally and the U.S. Centers for Disease Control has said that rising drug overdose deaths in the United States are linked to increased use of illicitly manufactured fentanyl. The local prosecutor, Carver County Attorney Mark Metz, said the county sheriff's office continues to investigate Prince's death, assisted by federal authorities, but at this point has not handed over the results of the probe to prosecutors. "They will be looking at many different things," Metz told Reuters by telephone. Prince, whose full name was Prince Rogers Nelson, did not leave a will, and his multimillion-dollar estate including royalties from his more than 30 albums is being handled by a court. The songwriter's hits include "Purple Rain" and "When Doves Cry."

Singer Prince died of accidental painkiller overdose: Medical examiner

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