Essential Insights for Addiction Counselors on Emerging Drugs of Abuse
- Dr. Diane Sherman
- 5 days ago
- 3 min read
As addiction counselors, staying informed about emerging drugs of abuse is essential to providing effective treatment and support. While substances like alcohol, opioids, and methamphetamine remain widespread, a wave of new synthetic and designer drugs has entered the scene—bringing fresh challenges to addiction care.
Here’s an overview of the newest drugs of abuse that counselors should be aware of:
1. Xylazine (“Tranq”)
What it is: A veterinary tranquilizer not approved for human use.
Why it’s dangerous: Xylazine is often mixed with fentanyl to prolong its effects. It doesn't respond to naloxone (Narcan), making overdoses more difficult to reverse. Users often suffer severe skin wounds that can lead to infection and even amputation.
What to look for: Sedation that’s deeper and longer than typical opioids. Wounds or ulcers not located at injection sites.
2. Synthetic Cannabinoids (“K2,” “Spice”)
What they are: Lab-made chemicals that mimic THC, the active ingredient in marijuana.
Why they’re dangerous: Unlike natural cannabis, synthetic cannabinoids can cause extreme anxiety, paranoia, hallucinations, seizures, or even death. The drug’s potency and ingredients vary widely, increasing risk.
What to look for: Unpredictable behavior, rapid heart rate, or psychosis after use of “legal” weed or “herbal incense.”
3. Nitazenes
What they are: A new group of synthetic opioids that are stronger than fentanyl.
Why they’re dangerous: Nitazenes are not approved for medical use but are showing up in street drugs. Some are 10–20 times more potent than fentanyl, greatly increasing overdose risk.
What to look for: Sudden respiratory depression in clients who deny using opioids or who thought they were taking a weaker drug.
4. Tianeptine (“Gas Station Heroin”)
What it is: An antidepressant in some countries, sold in U.S. convenience stores and online as a dietary supplement.
Why it’s dangerous: At high doses, tianeptine acts like an opioid, leading to addiction and withdrawal similar to heroin. It’s legal in many places, making it easily accessible.
What to look for: Opioid-like effects from over-the-counter supplements labeled “Zaza,” “Tianna Red,” or “Neptune’s Fix.”
5. Phenibut
What it is: A central nervous system depressant developed in Russia for anxiety and sleep disorders.
Why it’s dangerous: Although sold online as a supplement, it can cause addiction, withdrawal symptoms, and overdose—especially when mixed with alcohol or benzodiazepines.
What to look for: Mood swings, confusion, and physical dependence from “brain-enhancing” or “nootropic” supplements.
What You Can Do
Ask the right questions. Many clients don’t know what’s really in the drugs they use. Ask about sources—gas stations, online shops, “legal highs”—and symptoms rather than just substance names.
Educate clients. Awareness saves lives. Teach clients about the dangers of these new drugs, especially those who may believe “legal” means “safe.”
Stay current. Drug trends evolve quickly. Keep up with updates from the DEA, SAMHSA, NIDA, and other public health agencies.
Final Thoughts
New drugs of abuse are appearing faster than ever. As counselors, our best defense is knowledge. Stay informed. Educate those we serve. We can help reduce harm, support recovery, and adapt to an ever-changing landscape of substance use.
Join us for CLASS on May 9 and May 10 as we explore these and other drugs, and
learn how the brain and recovery is impacted by substance abuse.
(Content created with the help of AI)
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