Important alert warns of contaminated drugs in areas of Cheshire and Merseyside
In recent days, there has been confirmation of contaminated batch/batches of heroin circulating in and around the Southport area, with other reports of concern from other local areas across Cheshire and Merseyside.
There have also been a number of overdoses, some of which required hospitalisation and at least one of which was fatal. Forensic testing has identified the synthetic opioid etonitazene in the supply. Synthetic opiates are extremely high risk increasing the risk of overdose and of death.
Using these drugs could result in you being hospitalised or dying.
What you can do to keep yourself safe:
• Naloxone: Ensure you have naloxone and know where it is, even if you don’t use heroin or other opioids.
• Avoid mixing drugs: including alcohol which further increases the risks of overdose.
• Go low and slow: Start with a small amount (sometimes called a test dose) and wait at least 2 hours before taking any more.
• Not using alone: Always use where there is someone who can administer naloxone if needed.
• Use testing strips: While not 100% accurate, strips available from your local drug team can identify if your drugs might be adulterated with a more harmful substance.
• Call 999: If you or someone else needs urgent help please call emergency services
• Contact your local drug treatment service if you have any concerns.
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