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Updated: Oct 20, 2026

A General Method for Detecting Nitrosamide Formation in the In Vitro Metabolism of Nitrosamines by Cytochrome P450s
Published on: September 25, 2017
[Clinical challenges and toxicology of nitazenes]
Dorte Fris Palmqvist1, Ragner Thomsen2, Brian Schou Rasmussen2
1Anæstesiologisk Afdeling, Københavns Universitetshospital - Bispebjerg og Frederiksberg Hospital.
Abstract:
Nitazenes are 2-benzylbenzimidazole opioids never approved for medical use. They are highly potent, up to 500-fold stronger than heroin, and overdoses may require higher naloxone doses compared with overdoses caused by other opioids. They are found on the illicit drug market, but their presence in Denmark - particularly in counterfeit tablets - appears to be limited. Fatal cases have occurred, and forensic detection is challenged by very low lethal concentrations. Collaboration between authorities, clinicians and forensic toxicologists is crucial to prevent nitazene-related deaths in Denmark.
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