Queensland closes pill testing sites, risking public safety

The Queensland government will close two pill testing sites next month. This decision comes despite new evidence showing a dangerous synthetic opioid is spreading in Australia. Nitazenes, which are much stronger than fentanyl and heroin, were detected in Australian wastewater for the first time. These drugs have been linked to many overdose deaths both in Australia and abroad. Experts found one type, known as N-pyrrolidino protonitazene, in a granular brown powder at a testing site last year. A study led by Dr. Richard Bade from the University of Queensland discovered nitazene variants in Australia and the United States. He noted that the levels found in Australia were concerningly high compared to the US. "Protonitazene is about three times as strong as fentanyl, which has caused an overdose crisis in North America," he explained. The closure of the pill testing sites raises alarms among health experts. The Australian Medical Association Queensland stressed the importance of these services for community safety. Dr. Nick Yim, the president of AMAQ, emphasized that fixed pill testing locations allow individuals to discuss drug safety with healthcare professionals. Over the past months, the CheQpoint service identified nitazenes disguised as counterfeit oxycodone. Despite this, the government has decided not to renew the contracts for the testing sites, forcing their closure on April 4. This decision has drawn criticism from health advocates who believe it will hinder efforts to monitor harmful drugs in the community. Health Minister Tim Nicholls defended the government's position, stating that they do not believe pill testing will address issues related to illicit drugs. Meanwhile, concerns continue about community safety without an early warning system in place. Cameron Francis, chief executive of The Loop Australia, expressed worries that the lack of pill testing could lead to more harm. He reaffirmed a commitment to advocate for drug-checking services.