‘Hundreds of times stronger than heroin’: Severe overdoses trigger warnings in NSW

A warning has been issued after a collection of extreme opioid overdoses occurred in Sydney’s west final month.

Nitazenes, potent artificial opioids, have been present in a cluster of 20 overdoses reported within the Nepean Blue Mountains Local Health District

The artificial drug will be stronger than fentanyl and 100 instances stronger than heroin, based on NSW Health.

FILE IMAGE: Nitazenes, potent artificial opioids, have been present in a cluster of 20 overdoses reported within the Nepean Blue Mountains Local Health District (AP)

Nitazenes are additionally extra prone to cease or decelerate respiratory.

“Nitazenes are extremely potent,” NSW Health Chief Addiction Medicine Specialist Dr Hester Wilson stated.

“It is important that people recognise the signs of an opioid overdose early and know how to respond.

“Opioids similar to heroin may cause pin-point pupils, drowsiness, lack of consciousness, slowed respiratory/loud night breathing and pores and skin turning blue/gray and will be life-threatening.

“One of the dangers of illicit drug supply is the strength and contents of the substance you are getting is unknown and can be inconsistent.

“In mild of this detection, individuals who use medicine similar to heroin ought to carry naloxone.”

Investigations into the overdose cases are ongoing.

NSW Health recommends take-home naloxone as a life-saving measure as it can temporarily reverse an opioid overdose.

National Alcohol and Other Drug hotline on 1800 250 015 or name Lifeline on 13 11 14.

Source: www.9news.com.au