Houston DEA Warns of Deadly New Opioid 25% More Potent Than Fentanyl

Houston DEA Sounds Alarm Over Nitazene, a Potent Opioid Fueling Overdose Crisis Houston, TX – The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) in Houston has issued a grave warning about Nitazene, a synthetic opioid significantly more potent than fentanyl. The agency reports a sharp increase in overdoses and seizures linked to this drug, particularly affecting teenagers and adults. The DEA's concerns are underscored by a 57% rise in Nitazene-related overdoses in the Houston area between November and February. This alarming trend highlights the growing threat posed by this dangerous substance. "In the last year, we've become more and more concerned because our number of seizures have gone up," stated a DEA Special Agent in an interview with FOX 26 Houston. "Between November and February of this year, we had a 57% increase in overdoses from Nitazene in Houston." Nitazene's presence in the region dates back to 2022, impacting Harris, Montgomery, Fort Bend, and Brazoria counties. The DEA emphasizes that Nitazene is 25% more potent than fentanyl, making it incredibly dangerous. The ease of online purchase and subsequent smuggling into the US, often disguised as prescription medication, further complicates the issue. The DEA's warning serves as a crucial reminder of the dangers of illicit drug use and the importance of responsible sourcing of medications.