Dodgy cocaine prompts health alert

NSW Health said 11 people had been admitted to hospitals in the past two months after snorting what they thought was cocaine and then suffering opioid overdoses.

Two of those people died, the health department said.

“We’ve seen an increase in intensive care admissions and deaths associated with people using what they thought was cocaine but in fact also contained opioids including heroin,” NSW Poisons Information Centre medical director Darren Roberts said.

“An opioid overdose could quickly result from snorting a single line.

“It’s important that people recognise the signs of an opioid overdose early and know how to respond. Opioids can cause drowsiness, loss of consciousness and slowed breathing and can be life-threatening.”

People who have taken a stimulant drug and experience unexpected symptoms, including drowsiness, should call emergency services right away.

If possible, a jab of naloxone – a medication that reverses the effects of opioids – should be administered immediately.

“One of the dangers of illicit drug supply is the concentration and type of substance you are getting is unknown and can be inconsistent,” Dr Roberts said.

“As well as people who use opioids, people who use cocaine should also consider carrying naloxone.”

Naloxone, also available as a nasal spray, is sold at pharmacies and can also be found at other health services.

The NSW Poisons Information Centre can also give advice on adverse drug effects and has a 24-hour helpline on the telephone number 13 11 26.