DRUG WARNING 28.08.2024

DRUG WARNING 28.08.2024

WARNING

From Greater Manchester Drug Alert Panel. 28th August 2024

Extremely dangerous pills containing nitazenes may be in circulation in the Greater Manchester area

 

A number of unmarked green and yellow round pills were found at the scene of recent death in Greater Manchester. Tests have shown the pills contained isotonitazene.

  • Isotonitazene is one of a group of synthetic opioids known as nitazenes.
  • Over 250 people have died in the last year after drugs sold as heroin,
  • diazepam (street Valium), oxycodone or other street drugs were adulterated with nitazenes.
  • It is believed that these green and yellow pills were obtained online.

 

Drug deaths are the highest ever recorded.

The current illicit drug market has never been more dangerous

 

  • Assume that any heroin, diazepam, oxycodone, tramadol or other street or

online drugs may contain nitazenes

  • Start any new batch of drugs with a small test dose
  • Using diazepam, pregabalin or alcohol at the same time as opioids like heroin, methadone, oxycodone or tramadol increases risk
  • Don’t use alone. Use with friends and take it in turns to look after each other
  • Watch out for signs of an overdose in friends
  • Naloxone is an antidote to an opioid overdose.
  • If you use street, online opioids or diazepam make sure you have naloxone and be prepared to use it - you may have to use more than one dose
  • After using Naloxone - Ring for an ambulance as naloxone will wear off.

 

Ask your local drug treatment service about getting naloxone and test strips. Your local service can also offer rapid access to opioid medication treatment

 

Help and advice is available from your local drug service

https://www.talktofrank.com/get-help/find-support-near-you