Isotonitazene as a contaminant of concern in the illegal opioid supply: A practical synthesis and cost perspective

Abstract

• Isotonitazene is a non-fentanyl opioid recently found in the illegal drug supply • Isotonitazene may pose comparable risks to people who use drugs as fentanyl • Isotonitazene can be produced easily and at low cost with unrestricted chemicals • Isotonitazene is not detectable by common fentanyl testing strips • Harm reduction and clinical professionals should prepare for this potential threat