What is causing the overdoses in Southport?

A batch of heroin contaminated with the super-high strength synthetic opioid etonitazene is causing overdoses in Southport.

Why is etonitazene dangerous?

Etonitazene, a nitazene, is significantly more potent than heroin and can cause rapid, life-threatening respiratory depression even in small amounts.

What precautions should drug users take against contaminated heroin?

Drug users are advised to avoid using alone, use smaller amounts than usual, and carry naloxone if possible.

Home / Disasters and Accidents / Super Opioid Kills One, Causes Overdoses in Southport

Super Opioid Kills One, Causes Overdoses in Southport

28 Apr

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Summary

Contaminated heroin batch killed at least one person and caused overdoses.
Forensic tests confirm presence of super-high strength etonitazene.
Experts urge drug users to take extra precautions and carry naloxone.

Super Opioid Kills One, Causes Overdoses in Southport

A highly potent synthetic opioid, etonitazene, has been identified in a batch of heroin responsible for a fatal overdose and several other overdoses in Southport. The contamination was confirmed through forensic testing, with the first reported incident occurring on April 13th.

Experts warn that nitazenes are far more potent than traditional opioids like heroin or morphine, significantly elevating the risk of life-threatening respiratory depression, even in small doses. This poses a grave danger, especially when users are unaware of the substance's contamination.

Health authorities are issuing urgent advice to individuals who use drugs. They stress the importance of avoiding solitary use, reducing usual dosages, and carrying naloxone, a drug that can reverse opioid overdoses. Promptly calling emergency services is crucial if overdose symptoms are observed.

Disclaimer: This story has been auto-aggregated and auto-summarised by a computer program. This story has not been edited or created by the Feedzop team.