Nitazenes detected in tablets in the Northern Territory
Know the risks
Nitazenes are synthetic opioids that are
stronger and may be longer acting than many
other opioids. They are up to 500 times more
potent than heroin.
Nitazenes are dangerous and vary in strength.
Some are so potent that there is no safe dose.
The purity can also vary within a single batch.
This means there is no safe way to take drugs
that may contain Nitazenes.
Nitazene use has been linked to death and
serious harms in other States and Territories
and has been detected in drugs such as MDMA
and cocaine.
The risks of overdose are increased if you:
• Use drugs alone.
• Use nitazenes or other opioids if you have
not used them before.
• Use drugs again after a break.
• Use with other drugs (like alcohol,
benzodiazepines, ketamine, or GHB).
• Use a new batch.
Naloxone is a life-saving medicine that can
temporarily reverse an opioid overdose.
Naloxone is available in a very easy to use
nasal spray and as a pre-filled injection.
You should carry naloxone if you are using
drugs such as cocaine, ketamine,
methamphetamine, MDMA, or opioids, or if
you are hosting or going to a party where
drugs will be present.
You can get naloxone for free without a
prescription from pharmacies, needle & syringe
programs, and opioid treatment services.
If you’ve taken naloxone, always ring 000. The
effects of naloxone may wear off, and ongoing
doses and hospital treatment may be needed.
Drugs seized in the NT have been
found to contain Nitazenes.
This is the first detection of this
substance in the NT.
Signs of opioid overdose
• Pinpoint pupils
• Drowsiness
• Loss of consciousness
• Slow breathing/snoring
• Skin/lips turning blue/grey.
Life-saving medicine