One of the overdoses in recent Dublin spate linked to nitazene opioid

The statement said: “Ongoing analysis is being conducted on the sample to identify the exact composition of the substance.”

No fatalities have been linked to the overdose cluster to date, according to the HSE.

The HSE is warning drug users of increased risk and is recommending that people do not try new types of drugs or new batches being sold on the market.

HSE addiction services national clinical lead Eamon Keenan said: “We are urging extreme caution following a sharp rise in the number of overdoses related to a powder being sold as heroin in the Dublin region.

“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 said that the presence of the drug in the UK in recent months was an indicator that it could turn up in Ireland.

Last month, six deaths that had gone to inquests in Northern Ireland were found to be linked to nitazenes.

Professor Keenan said: “Nitazenes have been a factor in a couple of overdose deaths in London in the last six months.” 

He said the Irish market mirrors the British and the European market more than it does the US market, adding that it is more likely that nitazenes will be used in Ireland than fentanyl, which is popular in the US.

The HSE asks people who use drugs to follow harm reduction steps, which can help reduce the harms if they are using substances.

• Be aware, be extra vigilant at this time, there is increased risk at present and a number of overdoses have occurred in Dublin City this morning.
• Avoid new batches of heroin, avoid buying from new suppliers and avoid trying new batches or new types of drugs. This brings unknown risks.
• Access Naloxone, talk to your local service or doctor about accessing 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 increased risk of overdose at this time.
• Avoid using with 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.