Warning

Increased hospitalisations and ICU admissions following use of 'heroin' have occurred across the Central Coast region. Testing of the 'heroin' found it contained a potent opioid ('nitazene').

Use of this 'heroin' can be life-threatening.

Last updated: 22 December 2022
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Know the risks

  • Testing of 'heroin' has found it to contain a potent synthetic opioid of the nitazene class.
  • Nitazenes can be as strong, or stronger than fentanyl and cause slow breathing.
  • The combination of heroin with other strong opioids is more likely to cause overdose.
  • Naloxone can temporarily reverse an overdose from heroin and nitazenes.
  • Use naloxone if you have it, but do not delay calling Triple Zero.
  • You are at increased risk of overdose if you:
    • use drugs when you are alone. Or are using again after a break.
    • mix different drugs. Alcohol, benzos and opioids are very dangerous to combine.
  • Fentanyl test strips are unable to detect nitazene opioids.

Effects to look out for

Overdose symptoms include slow breathing/snoring, drowsiness, loss of consciousness, and skin turning blue or grey.

Getting help

If you see the warning signs of overdose:

  • Seek help immediately from your nearest emergency department or call Triple Zero (000). Stay with your mate and on the phone with the operator until the ambulance arrives.
  • If someone is not breathing, start CPR if you know how.
  • Use naloxone if you have it. Call ‘000’ even if naloxone has been given.

Support and advice

For free and confidential advice:

Take Home Naloxone program

  • Naloxone is an easy to use, life-saving medicine that can temporarily reverse an opioid overdoses. People at risk of experiencing an opioid overdose or who may witness an overdose can get naloxone for free without a prescription from some NSW community pharmacies, NSW Health needle and syringe programs, opioid treatment services and NUAA.
  • Visit Your Room - Naloxone for participating sites and more information on take-home naloxone.
  • NUAA can mail you naloxone for free in a discreet package. Order via their online shop or call (02) 8354 7343.

Current as at: Thursday 22 December 2022
Contact page owner: Centre for Alcohol and Other Drugs