Louise Vincent, 49, Drug User Who Led Harm-Reduction Movement, Dies

Nitazenes are novel synthetic opioids that can produce life-threatening toxic effects in very small amounts. Opioids are central nervous system depressants, typically producing a range of effects including pain relief, sedation, and respiratory depression (dangerously slow breathing). Respiratory depression often appears more quickly with novel synthetic opioids (NSOs), increasing the risk of life