You may have seen in the news that across the UK, there have been a number of accidental overdoses and deaths linked to a synthetic opioid called nitazenes.
Nitazenes have been found in heroin, and other illicit (bought on the internet or from a dealer) like benzodiazepines or oxycodone.
If you or someone you know uses drugs, it’s important to know about the risks – sharing the guidance below could help to save a life.
It’s safest not to use drugs but, if you choose to:
- It is best not to use alone and don’t let your friends use alone either
- If using heroin, smoke rather than inject
- If using a new batch, start with a low dose and adjust slowly
- Mixing different drugs, including alcohol, can increase your risk of harm and is more likely to cause an overdose. Try to use one drug at a time.
Be aware of the signs of opiate overdose:
- Difficulty walking
- Severe drowsiness
- Pinpoint (very small) pupils
- Dizziness / confusion
- Shallow or no breathing
- Difficulty speaking
- Blue lips or nails
- Cold, clammy skin
- Choking or snoring sounds
The importance of Naloxone
- Get, carry and use naloxone – it’s a life-saving medication that reverses the effects of opioid drugs like heroin, morphine, methadone and nitazenes
- If you are unsure what someone has used, administer Naloxone anyway – it will not cause harm to someone who has not used opioids
- It is highly likely that those suffering from the effects of a synthetic opioid overdose will require multiple doses of naloxone. Make sure you have enough supply of naloxone in case of an emergency
- Get naloxone from a drug service, pharmacy or homelessness service
Get help fast
If you think that you, or someone you are with, may be experiencing symptoms of overdose call 999 immediately.
