Person died after unknowingly taking deadly drug marketed as cocaine. Caution urged for those who use illicit substances.

Tragedy has struck in New South Wales as one person has lost their life and two others have been hospitalized due to overdoses caused by unexpected drugs being mixed with cocaine. The victims believed they were taking pure cocaine, but the substance was later discovered to contain a dangerous combination of bromazolam, a potent benzodiazepine, and 2C-B, a hallucinogen. This alarming incident has prompted NSW Health to issue a warning to all drug users to exercise caution.

According to Professor Andrew Dawson, the Acting Medical Director of NSW Poisons Information Centre, the risk of severe overdose or even death is significantly increased when individuals unknowingly consume drugs that are not what they expected. He emphasizes the dangers of purchasing illicit drugs, as their strength and contents are unknown and can vary greatly. It is a gamble with one's life.

Dawson advises anyone who experiences unexpected sedative effects, such as difficulty speaking or walking, drowsiness, loss of consciousness, slowed breathing, snoring, or changes in skin color, to seek immediate medical care. He also urges people to stay with friends or in the presence of others if they are feeling unwell, rather than going home alone to sleep it off.

In addition to seeking medical attention, Dawson stresses the importance of carrying naloxone, a life-saving treatment that can temporarily reverse an opioid overdose. Although naloxone cannot counteract the effects of benzodiazepines or hallucinogens, it can still be used in emergency situations. He encourages people to purchase take-home naloxone from pharmacies or obtain it from the NSW Users and AIDS Association via mail.

If anyone has concerns about adverse effects from drugs, they can contact the NSW Poisons Information Centre at any time, day or night, on 13 11 26. For support and information on drug and alcohol problems, the 24/7 Alcohol and Drug Information Service is available at 1800 250 015, offering confidential and anonymous telephone counseling and resources.

Let this tragic event serve as a reminder that the dangers of illicit drug use are real and unpredictable. Always be cautious and informed, and never hesitate to seek help or support if needed.

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