Deadly super-strength drugs are being discovered in fake medications bought online across the UK, potentially linked to hundreds of deaths, according to a BBC investigation. More than 100 cases have emerged of people attempting to buy prescription drugs like diazepam—often used to treat anxiety and muscle spasms—only to receive products laced with nitazenes, a synthetic opioid far stronger than heroin or fentanyl. The National Crime Agency (NCA) reports that nitazenes were connected to 278 deaths in the UK over the past year.
The discovery has raised serious concerns, with Martin Raithelhuber, a synthetic drug expert at the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime, describing it as a “very worrying development.” A government representative confirmed ongoing efforts to secure borders through intelligence and collaboration.
The UK’s sole national drug-checking service, WEDINOS, identified these contaminated samples from anonymous submissions. The fake medications appeared similar to legitimate pharmacy packaging but were likely sourced from illegal online pharmacies. This issue hit home for families like that of Anne Jacques, whose son, Alex, tragically died from nitazene contamination after unknowingly purchasing a counterfeit Xanax product. Alex, a 23-year-old student preparing for a career in opera, had sought sleep aid due to struggles with ADHD medication.
Many such cases involve benzodiazepine substitutes, including diazepam and insomnia medications such as temazepam and zolpidem. WEDINOS recorded 130 instances of nitazene-laced substances in the past year. Professor Rick Lines from WEDINOS noted that many users may believe they’re pursuing a safe alternative but are unknowingly risking exposure to these dangerous substances.
The government plans to classify all types of nitazenes as Class A drugs under the Misuse of Drugs Act, meaning those caught supplying could face life sentences, while possession could result in up to seven years in prison. The trend reflects a troubling pattern similar to North America, where counterfeit drugs containing fentanyl caused widespread addiction and fatalities.
Raithelhuber warned this development could signify a shift, as drug traffickers attempt to expand in Europe, increasing overdose risks due to the potent effects of both nitazenes and benzodiazepines
