opioids

National Addiction Authority plans , ‘One Stop’ support centre

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National Addiction Authority plans , ‘One Stop’ support centre

The National Addiction Authority in Cyprus is aiming to offer support and shelter to people struggling with addiction and homelessness. The authority’s national strategy between 2021-2028 promotes and supports various harm reduction measures in Cyprus, including treatment programs across the country and prisons. International Harm Reduction Day on May 7 highlights the importance of reducing the risks associated with substance use disorder.

Plans for comprehensive harm reduction centre

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Plans for comprehensive harm reduction centre

The President of the Cyprus Anti-Addiction Authority, Christos Minas, announced the goal of establishing a “one stop” center to provide services for homeless individuals, including supervised consumption rooms and sleeping quarters. The authority aims to expand harm reduction services in Cyprus and support individuals who are not yet ready to stop substance use. Through various measures outlined in the National Strategy 2021-2028, such as substitution therapy programs and distribution of harm reduction kits, the authority promotes harm reduction practices. Minas emphasizes that harm reduction is effective, economically efficient, and will continue to be a focus of the authority to protect all citizens affected by addiction.

Mexico sounds alarm over ‘zombie drug’ sedative in opioids

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Mexico sounds alarm over ‘zombie drug’ sedative in opioids

Mexican health officials are concerned about the presence of Xylazine, an animal tranquilizer, in opioids in cities on the country’s northwest border with the United States. Xylazine, known as “tranq dope” or “zombie drug,” has worsened the opioid crisis in U.S. cities like Philadelphia. The sedative Xylazine can make opioid overdose reversal treatments less effective and raise the risk of fatal drug poisoning, as well as cause severe skin abscesses. The study, funded by Mexico’s National Council for Science and Technology, tested drug residues in Tijuana and Mexicali, identifying Xylazine as an adulterant in heroin and fentanyl. The consumption of fentanyl is also spreading within Mexico’s borders.