Drug warning as 12 in hospital with overdoses

The 12 people displayed the same symptoms as an opioid overdose after consuming white powder sold as cocaine, seen picutred above, and methamphetamine.Photo: NZ Customs Service.

A dozen people have been hospitalised over the weekend due to suspected fentanyl overdoses, all in the Wairarapa region.

The drug information website High Alert says the 12 people displayed the same symptoms as an opioid overdose after consuming white powder sold as cocaine and methamphetamine.

"Those hospitalised displayed the same symptoms as an opioid overdose, and all responded well to naloxone - a drug that reverses an opioid overdose," the website states.

Preliminary testing indicates the presence of fentanyl, or a fentanyl-like substance.

"High Alert strongly urges people not to take any white powder at this time and testing is recommended to help minimise the risk."

Fentanyl test strips can be used to check if a substance contains fentanyl.

The Wellington Needle Exchange will be running a clinic to test white powder for fentanyl this Wednesday.

Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid much more potent than morphine that is rare in New Zealand's underground drug market.

High Alert says if you or someone you know consume a white powder and start to lose consciousness or breathe slowly, call 111 immediately.

-RNZ.

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2 comments

Far too soft on crime

Posted on 27-06-2022 10:25 | By Let's get real

When the profits available from criminal activities is far greater than the cost if caught, there needs to be a huge readjustment in public opinion. We have an unbelievable attitude to removing criminals from the general population. Those that have no consideration for the life of others (i.e. drug dealers in particular) should be removed from the community for a very long time. To make money whilst risking other peoples lives through the sale of recreational drugs should not be tolerated.


Lets get real...

Posted on 28-06-2022 15:27 | By This Guy

"To make money whilst risking other peoples lives through the sale of recreational drugs should not be tolerated." So you're all for an alcohol ban then? Its one of the most dangerous recreational drugs in the world after all


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