Dangerous new substance in circulation: – If you are at a party, you can come across it

Anita Mian is head of department at the unit for substance abuse services in Trondheim municipality.

She says they have been aware that nitazenes are in circulation and are already taking action.

Trøndelag has in a short time had three deaths where traces of nitazene were found in the blood of the deceased.

– Yes, it has come to Trondheim and we are out to prevent it, she says.

– Talk to your youth

She is concerned about the trend.

– I am worried about young people. Especially now in May when many people gather at parties. Then it is not only those who are in the risk zone who can be exposed to dangerous substances. If you’re at a party, you can come across the nitaz, she says.

That is why she asks that parents talk to their young people.

– There may be a bit of “frightening” about this, but it is important that people know. We need a wider awareness of drug use, she says.

– Nitazen can come in all forms. Both in liquid, powder and tablet form. Therefore, it is not easy to identify the substance, says Mian.

She is clear that you must seek help if you become unwell or see others becoming unwell.

– Keep your eyes open. Call 113. In case of an overdose with nitazene, doses of naloxone, which is the antidote nasal spray that the most active drug users are given. Then you have to have the help of an ambulance and a hospital, emphasizes Mian.

– And it is healthcare personnel who come. Not the police.

– You don’t have to be in a drug environment

When a new substance appears, all agencies in the drug services are in dialogue with each other and they are out on the streets and among young people to inform and prevent.

– We are out and talking to people. Outreach teams must prevent and inform. For us, it is important to be at the forefront, says Anita Mian.

The outdoor section meets them between the ages of 13 and 25, Samur meets them between the ages of 18 and 30. Then there is the health and overdose team, which is aimed at the most active users. They are usually over 30 years old.

– What we see is that younger people are increasingly using or coming out for stronger and more potent narcotic drugs. It is a big concern and a risk for young people, especially now, says Anita Mian.

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