Health authorities have issued a warning about a contaminated opioid detected in drugs that may cause an unexpected overdose or death in New South Wales.
NSW Health issued the warning for drugs “in a yellow power form” from the Central Coast, as it believes the substance could be related to a number of recent deaths that are currently under investigation.
The medical director of the NSW Poisons Information Centre, Darren Roberts, said drugs containing a potent opioid such as isotonitazene can cause unexpected and severe overdose or death.
“Nitazenes can be as strong, or stronger than fentanyl and may be more likely to affect breathing than other opioids,” he said.
“It’s important people recognise the signs of an opioid overdose early and know how to respond.”
Overdose symptoms can include pin-point pupils, drowsiness, loss of consciousness, slow breathing, snoring and skin turning blue or grey.
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NSW Health said Naloxone is an important life-saving medication that reverses the effects of opioids.
“It does not require a prescription and is free for anyone at risk of opioid overdose in NSW,” NSW Health said in a statement.
“You won’t get into trouble for seeking medical care. If you feel unwell, or if your friend feels unwell, do something about it.”
For more information see the public drug warnings published here or call the NSW Poisons Information Centre on 13 11 26.
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