A granular brown powder sample was found to contain N-pyrrolidino protonitazene (NPP), a nitazene and protonitazene analogue. This is a potent synthetic opioid that is stronger than other opioids including fentanyl.

Effects. All nitazenes carry a high risk of fatal overdose and there is no safe level of use. The overdose effects can include lowered or loss of consciousness, breathing slowly or not at all, tiny/pinned pupils, discoloured lips/nails, cold or clammy skin, choking/coughing/gurgling or snoring sounds.

Nitazenes are responsive to Naloxone, but several doses may be required. Know the signs of an opioid overdose and always call an ambulance (000) if an overdose is suspected.
Increased detection of nitazenes in our community make it even more critical to test any substances you’re considering consuming. Nitazenes have been found in other forms, including pills, capsules, powders, liquids and crystal.

Reducing the harm

Test your stuff! Come and see us at CanTEST. CanTEST Health and Drug Checking Service is a free, confidential harm reduction service.  CanTEST is located on the Ground Floor of the City Community Health Centre at 1 Moore Street in Canberra City. CanTEST is open on Thursdays from 3pm to 6pm and Fridays from 6pm to 9pm.

Don’t use alone.
Make sure your friends know what you were planning on using.

Responding to an overdose.
Always call 000 as soon as possible and use naloxone if you have it.
Nitazenes can cause multiple overdoses over time and people who experience a nitazene overdose require ongoing monitoring.
Naloxone is available for free from multiple sites across the country, including CanTEST