The Health Service Executive (HSE) has issued a strong warning to drug users not to use benzodiazepine tablets in the wake of several overdoses in the Midwest, Dublin, and Galway.
The yellow, round counterfeit benzodiazepine tablets linked to these overdoses have been found to contain nitazene, a strong and lethal synthetic opioid, according to analysis conducted by the Emerging Trends Laboratory at the HSE National Drug Treatment Centre.
The HSE stated that it is working with hospital emergency departments, emergency services, NGOs, An Garda Síochána, laboratories at the National Drug Treatment Centre, and Forensic Science Ireland to closely monitor the situation due to the “concerning rise” in overdoses and the risks posed by substances similar to nitazene.
An official stated, “Ongoing analysis aims to identify the exact composition of the substance.”
The HSE is warning drug users to stay away from certain tablets, new drug batches or varieties, and getting drugs from unfamiliar sources due to unidentified hazards.
“If you see any overdose symptoms, get medical attention right away. Hold onto the person until assistance comes,” it stated.
It also suggests getting naloxone from a nearby agency or physician, which momentarily counteracts the effects of opiates.
We strongly advise using great caution in light of several overdoses linked to phony benzodiazepine tablets.
