MCAVHN Care and Prevention Network

12/11/2025

Nitazenes are synthetic opioids that were first developed in the 1950s as potential analgesics but were never approved for medical use due to their high potency and associated risks. They work by binding to the mu-opioid receptors in the brain, similar to other opioids, which can lead to pain relief, euphoria, and sedation. However, they also carry a high risk of respiratory depression and overdose, especially at low doses.

12/11/2025

NITAZENES: A POWERFUL SYNTHETIC OPIOID – AN EMERGING THREAT

Benzimidazole (Nitazenes) are synthetic opioids similar to fentanyl—often just as strong or stronger. When mixed with fentanyl, the risk of fatal overdose rises sharply. These substances cannot be detected without lab testing, so users may not know they are taking them.

Although less common than fentanyl, nitazenes continue to appear in drug mixtures. Since 2020, DEA labs have identified over 1,000 nitazene samples. The most common types include isotonitazene, metonitazene, and protonitazene. They are causing increased deaths and serious health effects.

If you or someone you know is using opioids or other substances, contact SUDT Services in Mendocino County:
📞 1-855-765-9703 | TTY: 1-800-735-2929 or 711

12/10/2025

*Community Drug Advisory*

November 22, 2025

There has ben an increase in Medetomidine in the unregulated opioid supply in the qathet region. Medetomidine is a potent non-opioid sedative, similar to xylazine but appropriately 200x more potent. It is often detected in combination with opioids, benzodiazepines and other sedatives. Medetomidine toxicity cannot be reversed with naloxone.

There has been an increase in overdoses that include deep, prolonged sedation and severe respiratory depression. It can also cause low or absent pulse or high blood pressure, then low blood pressure. CALL 911 and always administer naloxone for a suspected opioid poisoning - expect persistent sedation.

*detected in light peach, light green and blue-ish chunks*

12/09/2025

Did you know?

Kratom—sold as capsules, powders, and teas can cause serious health effects, including psychosis, rapid heartbeat, liver damage, and addiction.

It’s NOT FDA-approved and is listed by the DEA as a Drug and Chemical of Concern.

Learn more on https://nida.nih.gov/research-topics/kratom

12/08/2025

When we provide options, people can reduce risks on their own. Safer smoking / pipe distribution can virtually eliminate the risk of HIV caused by scarce access to syringes. Need pipes for harm reduction distribution? We got you.

12/05/2025

12/04/2025

What is Kratom?
Kratom is a tropical tree native to Southeast Asia. Its leaves can act as a stimulant in low doses and a sedative in high doses. Use can lead to dependence and has been linked to psychotic symptoms, including hallucinations and confusion.
Kratom is often taken as tablets, capsules, powders, teas, or chewed leaves.

Potential Health Effects Include: 🚨
• Nausea, sweating, dry mouth
• Constipation, increased urination
• Rapid heart rate, vomiting, drowsiness
• Loss of appetite, weight loss, insomnia
• Liver toxicity, seizures , hallucinations

What is its Legal Status?
Kratom is not federally controlled, but some states regulate or prohibit it.
The FDA has not approved Kratom for any medical use, and the DEA lists it as a Drug and Chemical of Concern.

Stay informed. Protect your health.

12/03/2025

12/03/2025

You can receive free Narcan at our 148 Clara Ave. office or anywhere you see the van parked 🥰

While it may surprise you to hear, experts on drug safety highly recommend parents keep naloxone in their homes, regardless of their children’s ages.

12/01/2025