Urgent Warning: Deadly Nitazenes Found in Illicit Drugs
Date: April 2025
A highly dangerous synthetic opioid called nitazenes has been detected in illicit drugs in the Northern Territory for the first time. These substances are up to 500 times more potent than heroin and have caused overdoses and deaths across Australia. This is a critical alert for anyone using or considering using illicit drugs.
What Are Nitazenes?
Nitazenes are synthetic opioids that are far stronger than fentanyl and heroin. They have been found in various illicit drugs, including:
- Heroin
- Vapes
- MDMA (ecstasy)
- Cocaine
- Other street drugs
Since 2021, nitazenes have been linked to at least 17 deaths in Australia and multiple overdoses requiring hospitalization. Their extreme potency makes them life-threatening, even in tiny amounts.
[](https://www.mja.com.au/journal/2025/222/5/responding-reports-nitazene-toxicity-australia)
Why Are Nitazenes So Dangerous?
Nitazenes pose severe risks because:
- Extreme Potency: They can be up to 10 times stronger than fentanyl and 500 times stronger than heroin, making overdoses likely even with small doses.
- Unpredictable Presence: Nitazenes are often mixed into other drugs without users knowing, increasing the risk of accidental overdose.
- Long-Lasting Effects: They can stay in the body longer than other opioids, requiring repeated doses of naloxone to reverse an overdose.
- Non-Opioid Drugs Affected: Even drugs like cocaine or MDMA may contain nitazenes, putting all drug users at risk.
Signs of an Overdose? Act Immediately!
If someone shows signs of an overdose, such as difficulty breathing, unresponsiveness, or blue lips/skin:
- Call 000 for emergency services right away.
- Administer naloxone if available—it can reverse nitazene overdoses but may require higher or repeated doses.
- Place the person on their side to prevent choking and stay with them until help arrives.
Harm Reduction Tips to Stay Safer
We understand some people may use illicit drugs. To reduce your risk of harm:
- Carry Naloxone: Naloxone is available for free at many pharmacies through the Take Home Naloxone Program. It’s easy to use as a nasal spray or injection and can save lives. Learn more at health.gov.au. [](https://www.mja.com.au/journal/2025/222/5/responding-reports-nitazene-toxicity-australia)
- Test Your Drugs: Use drug checking services when available to identify dangerous substances like nitazenes.
- Start Small: If you use, take a tiny amount first and wait to gauge the effects.
- Don’t Use Alone: Have someone with you who can call for help or administer naloxone if needed.
- Avoid Mixing Drugs: Combining drugs, especially with alcohol or other substances, increases overdose risk.
Key Message
Nitazenes are extremely dangerous and have been found in a range of illicit drugs in the Northern Territory. They can cause overdoses and death, even in small amounts. Protect yourself by carrying naloxone, testing drugs when possible, and knowing how to respond to an overdose. Your life is worth it.