Public Health Warning: Severe overdoses after using drugs thought to be cocaine

31 December 2024
NSW Health is warning the community about the dangers of unexpected drugs in cocaine, which have resulted in three recent overdoses including one death. 

Two people have been hospitalised and one person has died in NSW as a result of overdose in the past week. The cases experienced severe sedative effects and altered behaviour.

The white powder associated with the cases was presumed to be cocaine by those using it, but was found to contain bromazolam, a type of benzodiazepine with strong, sometimes unexpected effects and 2C-B, a hallucinogen.  

NSW Poisons Inform​ation Centre Acting Medical Director Professor Andrew Dawson said the risk of severe overdose or death is increased when people use a drug that they are not expecting.  

“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,” Professor Dawson said.

“Anyone who experiences unexpected sedative effects such as difficulty speaking or walking, drowsiness, loss of consciousness, slowed breathing/snoring and skin turning blue/grey should seek medical care immediately.

“‘If you are feeling unwell, stay with friends or around other people. Don’t go home alone to sleep it off.

“Stimulants such as cocaine have also been found containing opioids.  It's strongly recommended that anyone who uses illicit drugs carry naloxone.

“Although naloxone does not reverse the effects of benzodiazepines or hallucinogens, if you are concerned that someone is having an overdose, naloxone is safe to use in these circumstances.”

Take home naloxone is a life-saving treatment which can temporarily reverse an opioid overdose.

Anyone who uses naloxone should call Triple Zero (000) for an Ambulance immediately after use for follow up care. You won't get into trouble for seeking medical care. If you feel unwell, or if your friend feels unwell, do something about it.

Take home naloxone is available as an easy-to-use nasal spray or injection from some pharmacies and other health services. For more information on the take-home naloxone program visit: Your Room - Naloxone.

Naloxone is available from the NUAA via mail in a discreet package. Order via their online shop or call (02) 9171 6650.

Anyone who has concerns about adverse effects from drugs should contact the NSW Poisons Information Centre on 13 11 26, at any time 24/7.

For support and information on drug and alcohol problems, contact the Alcohol and Drug Information Service on 1800 250 015. This is a 24/7 service offering confidential and anonymous telephone counselling and information.

NSW public drug warnings are available at Public drug warnings..

Current as at: Tuesday 31 December 2024