Harm reduction stories

Sep 19, 2026

Nitazenes synthetic opioids complicate Scotland's efforts to reduce drug deaths

Scotland's attempts to lower its high rate of drug deaths are being hindered by the emergence of nitazenes, a class of synthetic opioids often sold as heroin. The deadly new drugs represent a significant challenge to addiction treatment efforts in the country.

Sep 19, 20262 sources

Jun 30, 2026

FDA Authorizes Philip Morris to Market Zyn Nicotine Pouches as Less Harmful Than Cigarettes

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration granted Philip Morris permission to market its Zyn nicotine pouches as less harmful than cigarettes, allowing the company to market 20 variants of the product with modified risk claims.

Jun 30, 20263 sources

May 13, 2026

U.S. Overdose Deaths Fall 14% in 2025 to Approximately 70,000

Preliminary government data shows about 70,000 Americans died of drug overdoses in 2025, representing a 14% decrease from the previous year, though experts express concerns about policy changes and drug supply shifts.

May 13, 20261 source

Apr 27, 2026

Trump Administration Warns Against Federal Funding for Fentanyl Test Strips

The Trump administration has issued guidance against using federal dollars on fentanyl test strips, marking a clear shift away from harm reduction practices in drug policy.

Apr 27, 20261 source

Top claims

▪The drug, alcohol, and mental health charity With You operates a support group in the woods at Glenbarr on the Kintyre peninsula to help former substance users recover from trauma.
▪The European Union Drugs Agency reported that tighter controls in China and the Taliban's ban on poppy cultivation in Afghanistan have shifted synthetic drug production closer to European consumer markets.
▪Scotland should expand drug-testing services for active drug users

Subtopics

Addiction and Harm Reduction4 Addiction & recovery3 Drug policy3 Opioid crisis2 Public health policy2 Drug Approval and Clinical Trials1 Government and Regulatory Policy1 Lifestyle, Wellness and Nutrition1 Public Health and Safety1 Public healthcare1 Trump administration1 US health policy & drug pricing1

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