The European Drug Agency (EUDA) warns in its annual report that Europe is facing a significant increase in the illegal import and distribution of new synthetic drugs and strong opioids. According to the report, cited by “Reuters“, these substances pose a serious and growing threat to public health, News.bg reports.
In 2023, a record 37 tons of synthetic cathinones - stimulants chemically similar to the active ingredient in the khat plant, traditionally used in East Africa and the Arabian Peninsula - were confiscated in the countries of the European Union, as well as in Norway and Turkey. Most of these substances were imported from India. Seven new types of cathinones have been identified in the past year alone, underscoring their growing popularity and diversity.
New synthetic opioids, especially the nitazenes, are also of particular concern. Experts warn that these substances can be many times more potent than heroin or even fentanyl - substances that have already led to a serious increase in overdose deaths in the US and the UK.
“The development of the drug market requires faster and more coordinated action by health and law enforcement authorities“, the report states. EUDA calls for increased surveillance, early warning and more effective cross-sectoral cooperation.
Cannabis remains the most commonly used illicit drug in Europe. However, a worrying fact is that over the past decade, the content of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) in cannabis resin has doubled, significantly increasing the potential health risks.
In addition, 18 new types of semi-synthetic cannabinoids were identified in the first half of 2024 alone, including hexahydrocannabinol (HHC). In a number of countries, these substances are not yet officially banned, making them easily accessible.
Cocaine also saw significant growth - a record 419 tons of the drug were seized in 2023. The main entry points for its importation remain ports in Belgium, Spain and the Netherlands.
EUDA stresses that Europe is facing an increasingly dynamic and complex drug market, which requires decisive action, adequate resources and international cooperation to protect public health and safety.