Cork remains on red alert for opioid overdoses
Following a wave of nitazene-linked overdoses in Cork, the HSE has continued its strong recommendation that people do not try new types of drugs or new batches being sold on the market.
The HSE has confirmed that 17 non-fatal overdoses linked to drugs containing nitazene have occurred in Cork this month. It is understood that all 17 overdoses occurred within a short space of time.
The HSE has warned that the drug could be sold as a powder or as heroin without people knowing and said there is an “extra risk” connected to drug-taking at this time.
It follows 57 such overdoses in Dublin over a two-week period in November.
A HSE spokesperson said: “Due to this concerning rise in opioid overdoses in the Cork city area and the risks posed by nitazene type substances, the HSE is continuing to collaborate with various partners, including hospital emergency departments, emergency services, non-governmental organisation (NGO) service providers, An Garda Síochána, and laboratories at the National Drug Treatment Centre and Forensic Science Ireland to monitor the situation closely.”
In a recent post on social media, the HSE issued a warning regarding a number of overdoses in Cork city.
“Analysis conducted by Forensic Science Ireland confirms a nitazene type substance identified in a light brown/sandy coloured powder,” the HSE said.
Another post read: “Red alerts remain in place for the Cork and Dublin regions following the emergence of nitazenes on the drug markets.”
Reports suggest that the drug can come in two forms: tablets or powder, with the powder version being linked with the overdoses in Cork.
Professor Eamon Keenan, HSE National Clinical Lead, Addiction Services, said: “We are urging extreme caution following a sharp rise in the number of overdoses related to a powder being sold as heroin.
“Preliminary laboratory analysis has confirmed that recent overdoses may be caused by heroin mixed with nitazene, a potent and dangerous synthetic opioid. These pose a substantial risk of overdose, hospitalisation and death,” he added.
The HSE asked drug users to “be aware, be extra vigilant” and to follow harm reduction steps which can help reduce the harm if they are using substances.
The HSE has advised people who use drugs to:
- Avoid new batches of heroin, avoid buying from new suppliers, and avoid trying new batches or new types of drugs.
- Access Naloxone; talk to your local service or doctor about accessing overdose reversing medication Naloxone as soon as you can.
- Avoid using alone and make a rescue plan, and let someone know you are using and where.
- Test the dose, start low and go very slow. There is an increased risk of overdose at this time. Avoid using other drugs, including methadone, benzodiazepines, or alcohol.
- Get medical help immediately, look out for the signs of overdose and don’t be afraid to get medical help if someone is unwell. Stay with the person until help comes.