A capsule filled with an off-white powder expected to contain an unknown opioid was found to contain methylmethqualone and a fluorofentanyl.

CanTEST has detected MMQ by itself previously (a Yellow Community Notice was issued in Nov 2024).

Effects

Methylmethqualone (MMQ) is an analogue of the more common methaqualone (MQ). It’s a quinazolone sedative hypnotic – which is a central nervous system depressant that can have a range of effects, including sedation, impaired motor function, slowed reflexes and memory impairment. MMQ has a high potential for dependence and withdrawal symptoms.

Fluorofentanyl is a fentanyl analogue and has been linked to accidental opioid-based fatalities.

Individually they carry a risk of overdose, and when mixed the risk is heightened – even in very small amounts.

Know the signs of 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 or snoring sounds are all potential signs).

Naloxone doesn’t reverse a quinazolone overdose, only opioid overdoses (like fentanyl), but it won’t cause harm to use naloxone if someone is showing signs of an opioid overdose.

Test your stuff!

Always assume that your drugs may not be what you expect.

Come and see us at CanTEST – we are a free, confidential harm reduction service.

Naloxone

Naloxone can reverse an opioid overdose, but will not reverse an overdose of MMQ or other non-opioid substances. Never use alone and keep naloxone on hand. Search ‘Take Home Naloxone’ to get locations for free naloxone anywhere in Australia (link in bio).

Locals can get Nyxoid nasal spray naloxone for free from CanTEST, or visit cahma.org.au/services/naloxone to access their free postal naloxone service.

Never use alone.

Responding to an overdose

Always call 000 immediately (even if you have and use naloxone).
Learn first aid and CPR.