Two brown powder samples expected to contain heroin were found to contain fentanyl, phenacetin, paracetamol, heroin (6% in one sample, 10% in the other), and fluorofentanyl.

The samples were sourced locally (ACT region).

What does this mean?

Fentanyl carries the risk of fatal, opioid-like overdose, estimated to be between 50 and 100 times stronger than morphine and significantly more potent than heroin.

Fentanyl is known to cause opioid-like overdose (lowered/loss of consciousness, breathing slowly or not at all, tiny/pinpoint pupils, discoloured lips/nails, cold or clammy skin, choking/coughing/gurgling/snoring sounds are all potential signs).

While a heroin-induced overdose can take several minutes to take effect, fentanyl acts almost immediately, which can leave a very narrow window to provide help.

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

Reducing the Harm

Naloxone

Naloxone can reverse a fentanyl overdose, but several doses may be required – fentanyl can ‘outlast’ the effect of naloxone.

Search ‘Take Home Naloxone’ to get free naloxone anywhere in Australia.

Responding to an overdose

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

Test your stuff!