THE HSE has issue a major and urgent warning to drug users following a "cluster of overdoses in Dublin, Galway and the Mid West.£ Following analysis by the Emerging Trends Laboratory at the HSE National Drug Treatment Centre, the HSE has confirmed that nitazene in yellow, round counterfeit benzodiazepine tablets are associated with the overdoses. The health service has urged for drug users to be extra cautious and is recommending that people avoid the tablets altogether.
Professor Eamon Keenan, HSE National Clinical Lead, Addiction Services, said: “We urge extreme caution following a number of overdoses related to counterfeit benzodiazepine tablets. "Preliminary analysis suggests nitazenes, a potent and dangerous synthetic opioid, may be responsible. These pose a substantial risk of overdose, hospitalization, and death.
” Health professionals are reminding the public that your well-being is important and to remember to look after yourself and care for others. They have also issued harm reduction steps for anyone who chooses to use drugs in order to reduce risks. 1.
Avoid taking these tablets, new batches of drugs, new types of drugs or obtaining drugs from new sources due to unknown risks. 2. Talk to your local service or doctor about accessing naloxone for free.
Naloxone temporarily reverses the effects of opiate-type drugs like heroin, keeping the person alive until emergency services arrive. 3. Get medical help immediately if you see signs of overdose.
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