Contaminated heroin causing 'immediate' overdoses and sudden collapse

A health alert has been issued over a rise in the number of rapid drug overdoses potentially linked to contaminated heroin.

NHS Dumfries and Galloway issued the warning after an increase in overdoses in the region in which the patient “suddenly collapses”.

Health experts fear in such cases, heroin may have been contaminated with other harmful substances.

Although not yet confirmed by testing locally, these overdoses – which come immediately upon injection – form part of similar cases elsewhere in Scotland.

In those cases, tests have also revealed the presence of synthetic opioids and/or animal tranquilisers, as well as other combinations of substances.

Dumfries and Galloway consultant in public health Chris Allan said: “In these situations, the overdose has been almost immediate – with reduced breathing and rapid deterioration – and in cases in other areas people have very sadly died.

“We’re advising people who use drugs to be extra vigilant, and to help reduce risks of harm by observing the advice.

“Ensuring ready access to Naloxone kits which can help to treat an overdose could be important. And due to the potency of synthetic opioids like nitazenes, which might be present, you may need to administer multiple doses of Naloxone.

“Naloxone should only be used if the person is overdosing and unresponsive. Even if you’re not sure if an opioid is present, Naloxone can be administered and will not cause harm.”

Health experts are urging people to continue to engage with harm reduction services and treat all substances with caution.

Users are also being urged to start low and go slow and seek medical help if they or someone else feels unwell and not to buy new types of drugs or new batches, and don’t buy from new sources.

They should avoid mixing drugs (including medicines) and not use drugs alone or let friends use drugs alone and watch out for overdose signs like difficulty breathing, blue colouring to lips or fingertips, unresponsiveness and limp limbs.

NHS Dumfries and Galloway confirmed it is working with partners to gather more information, to raise awareness and to try and prevent further harm.

If you are concerned about a drug, you are able to independently and anonymously submit a sample for testing to the WEDINOS project.

Anyone looking for more information on drug and/or alcohol support services in Dumfries and Galloway can visit www.dgadp.co.uk.