Health Warning: Opioid Overdoses Linked to Drugs Sold as Cocaine
09 Sep 2025
NSW Health is warning the community about a recent rise in opioid overdoses linked to drugs thought to be cocaine in Sydney and Northern NSW.
In August 2025, ten people were hospitalised with suspected opioid overdoses after using substances they believed were cocaine. Three of these cases required intensive care. Testing confirmed that heroin was present alongside cocaine in some cases.
Signs of an opioid overdose include:
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Pinpoint pupils
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Drowsiness or loss of consciousness
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Slow or irregular breathing
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Skin turning blue or grey
Medical Director of the NSW Poisons Information Centre, Dr Darren Roberts, warns that illicit drugs can be unpredictable. "Opioids such as heroin may be mixed with cocaine, methamphetamine, or MDMA, and you cannot always tell the difference by appearance. Even a single line can cause an overdose."
Key safety advice:
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Carry naloxone, a life-saving medication that reverses opioid effects. It is free, does not require a prescription, and is available as a nasal spray or injection from some pharmacies and health services.
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If someone shows unexpected symptoms after using drugs, call 000 immediately and administer naloxone if available.
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Seeking medical help is safe and will not lead to legal trouble.
Support and resources:
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Take-home naloxone program: Visit Your Room for details.
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NUAA naloxone delivery: Order online or call (02) 9171 6650.
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NSW Poisons Information Centre: 13 11 26 (24/7)
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Alcohol and Drug Information Service: 1800 250 015 (confidential 24/7 counselling)
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NSW public drug warnings: Public drug warnings
Source: NSW Health
