“In recent decades, countless new synthetic drugs have entered the underground drug supply, and overdose deaths and other drug-related harms have skyrocketed as a result. Media, policymakers, and the general public are concerned — but often misguided — in their attempts to address the issue because they lack accurate information about drugs and drug supply changes.

This four-part series will explore the most commonly used new and emerging synthetic drugs in the United States, the geographic trends in where and when these drugs have spread, and the demographic trends in who is impacted by these drugs. Panelists will examine the risks and harms faced by people who use drugs and discuss the role of harm reduction and medical providers in reducing overdose and health risks. We know that current drug policies fuel and will continue to incentivize new, and likely, more dangerous drugs. As drug policy reformers, people who use drugs, and people who care about people who use drugs, we will envision solutions that are just as innovative and nimble as these new markets.

Panel 3: Understanding Drug Markets

With the advent of new technologies and new drugs, drug markets are changing. This panel will explore how drug markets have changed over time and what these changes mean for policies and interventions to reduce risk. Panelists will discuss: Where and how are drugs manufactured and distributed? How and where are people buying drugs? How do market changes impact criminalization, racial disparities, and overdose? How can we leverage these changes to promote more effective programs and practices?”