The Victorian Pill Testing Service has identified a sample sold as alprazolam powder that in fact contained heroin, with no detectable benzodiazepines. This presents a high risk of unexpected sedation, respiratory depression, and overdose — especially for people who believe they are using a benzo.

What is Heroin?

Heroin is an opioid – a central nervous system depressant that slows breathing and can cause life-threatening overdose, especially in people who have never or rarely used opioids.

While heroin and alprazolam are bothdepressants, they are very differentsubstances.

Using heroin with other depressants like alcohol, benzodiazepines (such as Xanax or Valium) or GHB increases the risk of overdose.

Opioid overdose signs

• Slow, shallow or stopped breathing
• Snoring, choking or gurgling sounds
• Unresponsive or hard to wake
• Blue (or grey) lips and fingernails
• Pale, cold or clammy skin
• Slow or irregular pulse

Opioid overdose response

• Call triple zero ‘000’
• Give Naloxone
• Rescue breaths if not breathing
• Place in recovery position
• Give more Naloxone if no response
• Stay until help arrives

Harm reduction tips

Carry naloxone.

Even if you don’t plan to take an opioid. Naloxone temporarily reverses opioid effects. You may need a higher dose or to repeat doses with nitazenes. It is legal and available from most pharmacies.

Avoid using alone.

Make sure to be around people you trust who can look after you if something does go wrong.

Start Low-Go Slow.

Even a small amount can be fatal. Try 1/4 of your usual amount.

Call 000 immediately

if you or someone else experiences adverse effects.