A brown sample brought to CanTEST for testing was found to contain paracetamol, caffeine, heroin, 6-MAM, and the potent synthetic opioid fentanyl.

This is the first time fentanyl has been detected at CanTEST

Effects– Fentanyl carries the risk of fatal overdose.

Fentanyl is known to cause an opioid-like overdose (lowered/loss of consciousness, person may seem like sleeping/snoring, tiny/pinpoint pupils, discoloured lips/nails, cold or clammy skin, choking/coughing/gurgling or snoring sounds are all potential signs).

Fentanyl can cause multiple overdoses over time and people who experience a fentanyl overdose require ongoing monitoring.

Reducing the harm

Naloxone can reverse a fentanyl overdose, but several doses may be required. Never use alone and keep naloxone on hand.

Search ‘Take Home Naloxone’ to get free naloxone anywhere in Australia (link in bio). You can get Nyxoid nasal spray naloxone for free from CanTEST.

Responding to an overdose. Always call 000 immediately (Even if you have and use naloxone). Learn first aid and CPR. Because opioid overdoses first effect a person’s breathing, rescue breaths are an important consideration when responding to a suspected overdose.

Test your stuff! Come and see us at CanTEST. CanTEST Health and Drug Checking Service free, anonymous harm reduction service.

CanTEST is located on the Ground Floor of the Community Health Centre at 1 Moore Street in Canberra City. CanTEST is open Thursdays 3-6pm and Fridays from 6-9pm.