Finland reports rise in alfa-PVP related overdose deaths

The Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare (THL) reports a significant increase in drug-related overdose deaths involving the synthetic drug alfa-PVP, also known as ‘peukku’. Alfa-PVP was detected in 76 investigated deaths last year, with many cases resulting from the combined effects of multiple substances.

In total, 224 drug-related overdose deaths were recorded last year, a slight increase from the previous year. A large portion of these fatalities involved the concurrent use of drugs and medications. Forensic chemist Pirkko Kriikku noted that the highest number of deaths occurred from buprenorphine use combined with other depressants or alcohol. Other contributing factors included various amphetamines and opioids.

Demographic data shows that nearly a quarter of those who died from drug overdoses were under the age of 25, a trend that has been rising for some time. Additionally, 30 suicides were recorded among drug users, particularly in the under-25 age group. The average age of those dying from drug overdoses was 35, and the majority were male. In contrast, alcohol-related poisoning deaths have seen a decline, with 117 deaths recorded last year.