High-risk drug alert: Nitazenes and novel benzodiazepines mixed with other illicit drugs

Potent synthetic opioids classed as ‘nitazenes’ and novel benzodiazepines (‘benzos’) have been detected in South Australia and could be present in illicit drugs.

Nitazenes and novel benzos may be mixed in with other substances, including methamphetamine, heroin and GHB. You cannot tell if they are present just by looking at your drugs.

EVEN TINY AMOUNTS OF THESE DRUGS CAN CAUSE OVERDOSE AND DEATH

If you are taking drugs, please remember to:

• be cautious if buying from a new supplier
• if a product looks different to expected be alert
• use smaller quantities and do not use alone
• have Naloxone on hand at all times

SIGNS OF OPIOID OVERDOSE:

• Tiny (pinned) pupils
• Slowed breathing
• Blue lips/fingernails
• Loss of consciousness and hard to rouse

If you experience adverse drug effects, or are present when someone has an unexpected reaction, seek help immediately by calling Triple Zero (000).

Naloxone is an easy-to-use medication that can reverse opioid overdose. It is safe to use even if you are not sure whether someone has taken opioids. Ask your CNP or AOD worker how to access naloxone today.

If you have questions or would like to talk to someone about alcohol and other drugs, check out our help services page.