May 2023

Isotonitazene, or “Iso,” is a relatively new synthetic opioid made from a potent opioid called etonitazene. Etonitazene is about 500 times stronger than morphine and has been a Schedule I controlled substance for years. Schedule I means it has no medical use and is easily abused. It is intended for research and forensic purposes only. Some of the signs of Isotonitazene use to look for are: · Pinpointed pupils · Slurred speech · Drowsy appearance · Slower movements · Low blood pressure · Slower heart rate · Low body temperature · Less physical pain · A euphoric or “high” feeling Many synthetic opioids have appeared in the illegal drug market, with Isotonitazene added to the mix in 2019, as evidenced by DEA drug seizures. Isotonitazene has been found in the United States, Canada, Germany, Estonia, Sweden, and Latvia as a lone substance or incorporated into other substances. Evidence suggests that Isotonitazene is mainly being used as a substitute for heroin or other opioids, whether the users are aware they are taking it or not. Some other signs of addiction to look for are: · Trying to stop or cut down on drug use, but not being able to.

LITTLE ROCK – As soon as the 2023 legislative session adjourned, the Senate and House Committees on Education began work on school funding in preparation for the 2025 session. Every two years the committees issue an adequacy report that sets a level of state funding of public schools that will comply with the state Constitution and state Supreme Court orders in school funding cases.