Urgent health warning after heroin overdoses of drugs thought to be cocaine

Two people have died and another two have been hospitalised after accidentally overdosing on drugs they thought were cocaine but were actually heroin. NSW Health has advice for drug users.

NSW Health has issued an urgent health warning after two people died, and another two were hospitalised after overdosing on drugs they thought were cocaine but were in fact heroin.

NSW Health Chief Addiction Medicine Specialist Dr Hester Wilson said two people died after the use of a substance they thought to be cocaine, while another two people have required hospitalisation.

Dr Wilson said “a heroin overdose could quickly result from a single line”.

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“It is important that people recognise the signs of an opioid overdose early and know how to respond,” she said.

“Opioids such as heroin can cause pinpoint pupils, drowsiness, loss of consciousness, slowed breathing/snoring and skin turning blue/grey, and can be life-threatening.

It is easy to overdose on heroin which can be found in cocaine.

“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.

“Heroin and other opioids can be sold as or found in cocaine, methamphetamine and MDMA (ecstasy). You cannot always tell the difference between these drugs by appearance.”

NSW Health has urged anyone who uses drugs such as cocaine, methamphetamine, MDMA or opioids to carry naloxone.

“Naloxone is an important lifesaving medication that reverses the effects of opioids. It does not require a prescription and is free for anyone at risk of opioid overdose in NSW,” Dr Wilson said.

“If you witness someone experiencing any unexpected symptoms after using drugs, you should call triple zero (000) immediately or seek urgent medical attention. Naloxone should be given immediately if available.”

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