Synthetic opioid variants rise in US illicit drug supply
A sharp increase in orphine analogues, potent synthetic opioids, has been documented in the US illicit drug supply since late 2025. These substances are linked to rising overdose risks.
Why it matters
This affects public health and users of illicit drugs; evidence comes from cross-sectional data.
What are orphine analogues
Orphine analogues are synthetic opioids chemically similar to orphine, a substance not commonly found in illicit markets.
Common questions
What are orphine analogues
They are synthetic opioids related to orphine, which are becoming more common in illicit drug markets.
When did their presence increase
The increase was noted in the US illicit drug supply since late 2025.
Sources
- Potent ‘Orphine’ Opioids Surge in US Illicit Drug Supply Medscape · medscape.com
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