A clear syrup-like liquid expected to contain GHB, was instead found to contain liquid free base methamphetamine. In this form, it isn’t safe for any consumption method. The purity of the free base methamphetamine was 85%.

What does this mean? Unlike crystal methamphetamine, free base methamphetamine isn’t designed to be vaporised, smoked, swallowed, injected or ingested in any way.

In this form, it’s an irritant to skin, eyes, mucous membranes, the upper respiratory tract and veins. If you come into contact with liquid methamphetamine, you should seek urgent medical advice.

If someone was expecting to consume GHB (a depressant) and unknowingly consumed liquid methamphetamine instead, the potential for accidental overdose would be extremely high. In addition to being an unexpected substance this particular sample was very high purity, at 85% free base.

Effects of unexpected methamphetamine consumption can include a racing heartbeat, increased blood pressure, agitation and confusion.

Unexpected consumption of liquid methamphetamine at such a high purity could cause more acute symptoms regardless of the consumption method. These could include chest pain, difficulty breathing, seizures, and if swallowed or inhaled, nausea and vomiting and severe irritation.

Test your stuff! While it’s not unusual for CanTEST to test liquids that are expected to contain GHB, the unexpected test result of liquid methamphetamine at such a high purity poses a significant health risk if consumed unexpectedly, which is why CanTEST is releasing this community notice.

Start low and go slow. Using GHB? Try a very small test dose first and never use alone.

Know the signs. If you or someone else experiences unexpected or negative effects including severe symptoms like respiratory distress, vomiting, chest pain, a sudden severe headache or other signs of a stimulant overdose – don’t wait. Seek medical help immediately by calling 000.