Ohio Governor Mike DeWine signed an order classifying nine potent synthetic opioids (nitazenes) as Schedule I controlled substances, banning their sale and use, due to rising overdose cases involving these substances.

Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine signed an executive order, classifying nine synthetic opioids (nitazenes) as Schedule I controlled substances, banning their sale and use in Ohio. These nitazenes are more potent than fentanyl, never approved for medical use, and are often found mixed with illicit drugs. The decision came due to rising overdose cases involving these substances, with at least 77 overdoses recorded in 2023.