Dangerously adulterated batches of the drugs cocaine and ketamine are circulating in Sydney and regional NSW.
NSW Health has issued a warning due to fentanyl and acetylfentanyl toxicity in the drugs, which has already caused multiple hospitalisations.
Fentanyl is a high potency opioid – up to 100 times stronger than morphine – meaning only a very small amount can cause a rapid, unexpected and life-threatening overdose.
People who have never or rarely used opioids are at highest risk of overdose from these substances. Risk of overdose is also increased by the use of other sedatives (such as alcohol, benzodiazepines, ketamine, GHB).
Serious adverse effects may include:
- Drowsiness
- Loss of consciousness
- Vomiting
- Slow, shallow and/or erratic breathing
- Face being very pale or clammy
- Change in skin tone: bluish/purple for lighter skinned people, greyish for darker skinned people.
If you or someone you are with experiences these symptoms, get immediate medical help. Call Triple Zero (000) and ask for an ambulance. Start CPR if someone is not breathing. Administer naloxone if you have any. Call ‘000’ even if naloxone has been administered, as repeat doses may be required.
Naloxone is an easy to use, life-saving medicine that can temporarily reverse an overdose from fentanyl or other opioid drugs. 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 and NSW Health needle and syringe programs.
Support and advice
For free and confidential advice call the Alcohol and Drug Information Service (ADIS) on 1800 250 015 any time, 24/7. You can also start a web chat with an ADIS counsellor Monday to Friday, 8:30am to 5pm.
For information about potential adverse effects from drugs, call the NSW Poisons Information Centre on 13 11 26.
Visit NUAA (New Users and AIDS Association) or call 1800 644 413 for a range of resources to support you and your friends.