Major health warning issued after two dead from substance overdose initially thought to be cocaine

Two people have died and two others have been hospitalised after overdosing on drugs initially thought to be cocaine, but turned out to be heroin.

The deaths have prompted an urgent warning from NSW Health the dangers of consuming illicit drugs, because the strength and contents of the substances were unknown and inconsistent.

NSW Health chief addiction medicine specialist Dr Hester Wilson said heroin overdoses could quickly result from a single line.

“It is important that people recognise the signs of an opioid overdose early and know-how to respond,” he said.

“Opioids such as heroin can cause pinpoint pupils, drowsiness, loss of consciousness, slowed breathing/snoring and skin turning blue/grey and can be life-threatening.

“Heroin and other opioids can be sold as or found in cocaine, methamphetamine, and MDMA (ecstasy).

“You cannot always tell the difference between these drugs by appearance.

“In light of this detection, people who use drugs such as cocaine, methamphetamine, MDMA or opioids should carry naloxone.”

Anyone who witnesses someone experiencing unexpected symptoms after using drugs should call triple 0 immediately, or seek urgent medical care.

Experts also suggest people carry naloxone which should be given immediately as an important lifesaving medication that reverses the effect of opioids.

Naloxone does not require a prescription and is free for anyone at risk of opioid overdose in NSW.

It is available as an easy to use nasal spray or injection from some pharmacies and other health services.