HSE raise alarm on Nitazene drug sweeping the country posing serious consequences

A total of 8 drug-related overdoses have been reported to the HSE in the last 36 hours, prompting the Health Service Executive (HSE) to issue a red alert.

This comes after a series of overdoses in the areas of Cork city, reported on Wednesday, December 6, and Thursday, December 7.

Forensic Science Ireland (FSI) has confirmed the presence of a trace amount of a Nitazene type substance in a light brown powder associated with these overdoses, prompting immediate action.

Professor Eamon Keenan, HSE National Clinical Lead, Addiction Services, urges extreme caution: "We are urging extreme caution following 8 overdoses related to a powder being sold on the heroin market in the Cork region. Preliminary laboratory analysis has confirmed that recent overdoses may be caused by nitazenes, a potent and dangerous synthetic opioid. These pose a substantial risk of overdose, hospitalisation and death."

Professor Keenan emphasizes that individuals should refrain from trying new types of drugs or new batches currently circulating in the market, as the dangerous substance could be disguised as heroin.

Naloxone, a life-saving medication that temporarily reverses the effects of opiates like heroin, is available free from Cork Addiction Services.

To mitigate risks, the HSE recommends following harm reduction steps, including not using drugs alone, starting with a low dose, and avoiding the use of other substances such as methadone, benzodiazepines, or alcohol. Individuals are also urged to seek medical help immediately if witnessing signs of overdose and to stay with the person until help arrives.

The HSE continues to collaborate with various partners, including Hospital Emergency Departments, Emergency services, non-governmental organization (NGO) service providers, An Garda Síochána, and laboratories at the National Drug Treatment Centre and Forensic Science Ireland. Ongoing laboratory tests aim to identify the substances involved in these concerning overdoses.