News
November 02, 2025
Senators Sound Alarm on ‘Deadlier Than Fentanyl’ Drug in Bipartisan Crackdown
WASHINGTON, D.C. — A bipartisan coalition led by Senators Dave McCormick (R-PA) and Ruben Gallego (D-AZ) introduced legislation Thursday to permanently classify nitazenes — a synthetic opioid up to 40 ...
WASHINGTON, D.C. — A bipartisan group of senators is raising the alarm about a dangerous new threat in the opioid crisis: nitazenes. Led by Senators Dave McCormick (R-PA) and Ruben Gallego (D-AZ), the coalition introduced legislation on Thursday aimed at permanently classifying these synthetic opioids as Schedule I substances, effectively making them illegal and subject to the strictest regulations.
Nitazenes, experts warn, are significantly more potent than fentanyl, with some variations estimated to be up to 40 times stronger. This heightened potency makes them incredibly dangerous, dramatically increasing the risk of overdose and death, even in users with high opioid tolerances. The senators argue that the current temporary scheduling is insufficient to combat the growing threat posed by these deadly substances.
"We are facing an opioid crisis that continues to evolve, and nitazenes represent a terrifying new chapter," Senator McCormick stated. "Their extreme potency demands immediate and decisive action. Permanently classifying them will give law enforcement the tools they need to keep these drugs off our streets and save lives."
Senator Gallego echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the bipartisan nature of the effort. "This isn't a Republican or Democratic issue; it's a matter of public safety," he said. "We must work together to protect our communities from these deadly drugs and ensure that those struggling with addiction have access to the treatment and support they need."
The legislation seeks to close loopholes that allow for the manufacture and distribution of nitazenes, which are often mixed with other drugs like heroin, cocaine, and counterfeit pills, often without the user's knowledge. This makes accidental overdose even more likely. Law enforcement officials have reported an increasing number of seizures involving nitazenes across the country, indicating a rapid rise in their availability.
The senators hope that by permanently classifying nitazenes, they can send a clear message to drug traffickers and prevent further devastation caused by these deadly substances. The bill also includes provisions for increased research and education on the dangers of nitazenes, as well as support for treatment and prevention programs. The senators are urging their colleagues in Congress to quickly pass the legislation to address this urgent public health crisis.
Nitazenes, experts warn, are significantly more potent than fentanyl, with some variations estimated to be up to 40 times stronger. This heightened potency makes them incredibly dangerous, dramatically increasing the risk of overdose and death, even in users with high opioid tolerances. The senators argue that the current temporary scheduling is insufficient to combat the growing threat posed by these deadly substances.
"We are facing an opioid crisis that continues to evolve, and nitazenes represent a terrifying new chapter," Senator McCormick stated. "Their extreme potency demands immediate and decisive action. Permanently classifying them will give law enforcement the tools they need to keep these drugs off our streets and save lives."
Senator Gallego echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the bipartisan nature of the effort. "This isn't a Republican or Democratic issue; it's a matter of public safety," he said. "We must work together to protect our communities from these deadly drugs and ensure that those struggling with addiction have access to the treatment and support they need."
The legislation seeks to close loopholes that allow for the manufacture and distribution of nitazenes, which are often mixed with other drugs like heroin, cocaine, and counterfeit pills, often without the user's knowledge. This makes accidental overdose even more likely. Law enforcement officials have reported an increasing number of seizures involving nitazenes across the country, indicating a rapid rise in their availability.
The senators hope that by permanently classifying nitazenes, they can send a clear message to drug traffickers and prevent further devastation caused by these deadly substances. The bill also includes provisions for increased research and education on the dangers of nitazenes, as well as support for treatment and prevention programs. The senators are urging their colleagues in Congress to quickly pass the legislation to address this urgent public health crisis.
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