Recently, authorities in New South Wales (NSW) have issued a warning regarding a potentially lethal opioid called isotonitazene. The drug has been found contaminated in other drugs in a yellow powder form on the NSW Central Coast, and NSW Health believes it could be linked to recent deaths, which are currently under investigation.
Isotonitazene is a synthetic opioid that is considered more potent and dangerous than heroin. It is believed to have originated in China, and has been found in other countries such as Canada and the United States.
According to Medical Director of the NSW Poisons Information Centre, Associate Professor Darren Roberts, nitazenes have the potential to be as strong as – or even stronger than – fentanyl, and may lead to more breathing difficulties than other opioids. However, these drugs cannot be identified through standard fentanyl test strips.
“Recognizing the signs of an opioid overdose in its early stages and knowing how to respond appropriately is essential as it could potentially save a life. Symptoms of such an overdose may include pinpoint pupils, drowsiness, loss of consciousness, slow breathing/snoring, or skin turning blue or grey,” he said.
If someone witnesses someone displaying symptoms of drug use, they should contact emergency services immediately and seek medical assistance. If it is accessible, they should administer Naloxone without delay.
