This white-powder filled tablet was expected to contain an opioid, but instead was filled with isotocyanozene. Photo: CanTEST.
There’s no readily available data worldwide on the latest nitazene variant detected at CanTEST, the ACT’s pill testing facility.
The facility issued a community notice after a capsule filled with a white powder, which was expected to contain an unknown opioid, was instead found to contain the novel nitazene isotocyanozene.
There have been several detections of illegal nitazenes at CanTEST in recent months. The first was detected in December 2022, but the latest variation hasn’t been seen before.
“This is the first detection of isotocyanozene at a drug collection service in Australia,” the CanTEST community notice stated.
“There is no readily available data on isotocyanozene globally.”
The potency of the drug is not known, but nitazenes are known to be hundreds or even thousands of times more potent than heroin or morphine.
The community notice stated all nitazenes carried the risk of overdose, even in very small amounts, and could cause multiple overdoses over time.
“Information on this substance is extremely limited,” it stated.
“If considering using, please note that there is no evidence-based information on safer use strategies for isotocyanozene.
“Being informed, carrying naloxone, and staying with others can reduce potential harm.”
Nitazenes can cause an opioid-like overdose, which includes symptoms such as lowered or loss of consciousness, discoloured lips/nails, cold or clammy skin, choking/coughing/gurgling, or snoring sounds.
All ACT Policing vehicles are equipped with naloxone to provide first aid if other emergency services cannot arrive on scene first.
Nasal spray naloxone is also available for free from CanTEST, and it also has a postal service.
If you suspect someone is experiencing an overdose, call Triple Zero (000) immediately, even if you have and use naloxone.
CAHMA offers free naloxone training five days a week between 10 am and 4 pm, and also offers online courses.
The National and Other Drugs Hotline is available on 1800 250 185 for confidential support, including information, referral and telephone counselling for people struggling with addiction.
