Receive Proper Care Against Nitazene and Fentanyl Addiction with Boulder CO Halfway Houses

In Boulder County, Colorado, researchers have detected a new deadly drug that could be even more dangerous than fentanyl. This drug is a type of opioid called nitazene, and it has been identified in the region for the first time. Nitazenes are not routinely tested for in toxicology screenings, making it difficult to identify their presence in overdoses.

Nitazenes were first developed by researchers around 60 years ago. They were originally designed to be used as an alternative for morphine, but nitazenes were never released to the public because of their high potential for overdose. They come in various formulations, presenting as either white or brown/yellow powder. They can manifest as crystalline solids or tablets resembling oxycodone. Nitazenes are administered through injection, inhalation, or ingestion when in tablet form.

Halfway houses in Boulder CO are dedicated to helping individuals move on from their substance use disorders and ensures they do not endure further hardships. While halfway houses are not a direct solution to preventing opioid addiction, they act as a supportive role in recovery efforts by providing guidance during the reintegration process, potentially reducing the risk of relapse and opioid use.

What is the new drug in Boulder CO?

The “new drug” currently causing concern in Boulder, Colorado, is not actually entirely new. It’s a class of synthetic opioids called nitazenes. While nitazenes have been around for decades and not approved for medical use, they are emerging in the illegal drug market and causing concern due to their high potency and potential for overdose.

Nitazene has not been widely seen before, except in one other location in the Midwest. The Boulder County Coroner’s Office has recorded two nitazene-related deaths since mid-2023. These deaths involve one case of etonitazene intoxication (N-Desethyl etonitazene) and one case of protonitazene intoxication. 

Nitazene has been around for decades but has not been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for consumer use. Its recent identification required additional testing from a national research laboratory. Due to its newly identified structure, there is limited research available. Investigators suspect that this drug may be coming from the dark web, which can source substances from various countries or businesses. 

Nitazene can have a potency similar to or greater than fentanyl, making it extremely dangerous. Public awareness, recognizing overdose signs, and having naloxone (a medication that can reverse opioid overdoses) on hand are crucial in preventing fatalities.

Do halfway houses drug tests?

Yes, most halfway houses do require residents to submit to regular drug testing. This is a crucial element of maintaining a safe environment for individuals in recovery and preventing relapse. The specifics of drug testing policies will vary between different halfway houses in Colorado, but some common aspects include:

• Frequency: Drug testing can occur weekly, bi-weekly, or even more frequently depending on the house’s policies and the individual’s needs.
• Types of Tests: Urine tests are the most common method, but hair follicle or breathalyzer tests may also be used in some cases.
• Consequences of Positive Tests: Each halfway house will have its own consequences for failing a drug test, which could range from increased monitoring to dismissal from the program.

The reasons why drug testing is done in halfway houses:

• Promote Recovery: By monitoring drug use, residents stay accountable and are discouraged from relapsing.
• Maintain a Safe Environment: Drug-free living helps ensure the safety and well-being of all residents.
• Early Intervention: Identifying drug use allows for early intervention and support to prevent relapse.

Drug testing plays a vital role and it’s just one of many tools used to help residents achieve long-term recovery. Regular drug testing is only one of the many common rules within a halfway house in Colorado. While specific rules can vary between different facilities, here are some of them:

• Respectful behavior: Residents are expected to treat each other and staff with respect and refrain from disruptive behavior.
• Curfews: Residents are typically required to be back at the halfway house by a specific time each night, usually around 9 to 10 PM in most halfway houses.
• Sobriety: Maintaining sobriety from all alcohol and drugs is mandatory. As mentioned above, random drug testing is done regularly, and consequences for positive tests exist.
• Household chores: Participating in chores assigned to maintain a clean and orderly living environment is expected.
• Attending therapy: Regular participation in individual and/or group therapy sessions is usually mandatory.
• Program participation: Participating in other recovery programs or activities offered by the halfway house, such as skills training, relapse prevention activities, and some include support groups such as Alcoholics Anonymous (AA).
• Following house rules: Residents must adhere to all house rules, which may cover various aspects like guest policies, use of electronics, smoking, and noise levels.

It’s important to note that these are general guidelines, and the specific rules of a halfway house in Colorado can vary depending on factors such as the program’s philosophy and treatment approach, the level of security and supervision provided, and the target population served. For the most accurate information on the specific rules and regulations of a halfway house in Colorado, it’s crucial to contact the facility directly.

Do halfway houses help you find a job?

Halfway houses can play a supportive role in helping residents find a job, but it’s not necessarily their primary focus. Their main goals are to provide a structured environment, promote recovery, and equip individuals with the skills needed for independent living. However, many halfway houses offer resources and assistance that can aid residents in their job search:

• Job search assistance: Some halfway houses may offer workshops or individual counseling sessions specifically focused on job search skills, such as resume writing, interview preparation, and networking.
• Connections to resources: Staff may connect residents with local job training programs, employment agencies, or organizations that specialize in job placement for individuals in recovery.
• Training: Many halfway houses offer programs or workshops that help residents develop life skills, such as time management, budgeting, and communication, which can be valuable assets in any job.
• Volunteer opportunities: Some halfway houses may offer volunteer opportunities within the facility or in the community, which can provide residents with work experience, build their confidence, and expand their professional network.

While halfway houses can offer valuable support, it’s important to remember that finding a job after addiction can be challenging. However, several resources and organizations can help:

• Recovery-friendly workplaces: Some specifically aim to hire individuals in recovery, understanding the unique challenges they face.
• Government programs: Public assistance programs such as vocational rehabilitation services can provide training and support for finding and maintaining employment.
• Non-profit organizations: Organizations dedicated to helping individuals in recovery often offer job training, placement assistance, and support groups focused on reintegration to work.

Other things to keep in mind:

• Individual Needs and Goals: The specific level of job search support a resident receives from a halfway house depends on their individual needs and goals. Some residents may be ready to actively seek employment immediately, while others may prioritize other aspects of their recovery before focusing on job search.
• Length of Stay: The duration of a resident’s stay in a halfway house can also influence the extent of job search support they receive. Shorter programs may focus more on relapse prevention and immediate needs, while longer programs may have more time dedicated to career development.

While halfway houses may not directly find jobs for residents, they can provide essential assets and support to help them develop the skills and confidence needed for successful job search and reintegration.

Reducing Opioid Overdose Deaths from Drugs like Nitazene and Fentanyl with Boulder CO Halfway Houses

For many, opioid addiction happens unintentionally from the legitimate use of medication. Despite their efforts, some individuals find themselves grappling with addiction, a condition they didn’t want in the first place. Addressing this challenge demands a complex approach that considers the many strategies necessary to prevent and address opioid addiction.

Opioid overdose deaths in Colorado have been on the rise for several years, with 1,289 deaths reported. This represents 68% of all drug overdose deaths in the state. In 2021, Colorado recorded 543 opioid overdose deaths from both prescription opioids and illegal opioids like heroin. The age-adjusted rate of prescription opioid overdose deaths, including fentanyl, increased to 19.7 deaths per 100,000 persons, up from 13.6 deaths in 2020. Even when excluding any mention of fentanyl, the prescription opioid overdose death rate was 4.7 deaths per 100,000 persons in 2021 (compared to 4.2 deaths in 2020).

The opioid crisis from drugs like fentanyl and nitazene crisis is a serious concern in Colorado, but there is help available. While halfway houses may not directly prevent addiction, they can be a crucial step on the road to recovery. Your support can make a difference in helping individuals break free from the grip of addiction and build brighter futures. Together, we can create a safer and healthier Colorado by preventing opioid and nitrazine addiction through halfway houses in Boulder CO and community support. You are not alone in this journey. Be sure to reach out to us!

Resources:

[1] Nitazenes: What to Know About the Illegal Opioids  – GoodRX Health

[2] What are Nitazenes? Everything You Need to Know – Shatterproof

[3] Opioid Crisis in Colorado – Behavioral Health Administration