Essex Police issue synthetic opioid warning after two found dead in …

Police have issued a warning about a new synthetic drug that is said to make the effects of heroin more potent. It comes after two people – a man and a woman – were found dead in Basildon.

Officers say the pair were discovered at a property on Tuesday, June 13. At the address, police say they discovered the presence of etonitazene, a synthetic opioid of similar or higher toxicity to fentanyl.

They say the substance could cause harm to anyone ingesting it or handling it. Officers say the drug is used to make the effects of heroin seem more potent.

But it “substantially increases” the chances of respiratory issues. Police say they are investigating the deaths in Basildon, but also want to prevent future fatalities due to the synthetic drug mix.

Detective Inspector Kevin Hughes, from Essex Police, said: “I would urge people not to take any illegal substances at any time but particularly not at this time. We strongly advise anyone using drugs not to use alone.

“Immediate advice is to avoid using heroin altogether. However, if you do choose to take it, we would urge you to follow these steps: Ensure there is someone to watch out for you who is not under the influence.

“Take less than you normally would and wait before continuing. Have opioid antidote, naloxone, to hand. Current advice is that naloxone should work to counteract the effects of nitazine-type drugs.

“Be ready to call for help – urgent medical intervention may make all the difference. Don’t use with other depressants – particularly avoid consuming other depressants such as alcohol, pregabalin, gabapentin or other opiates – these can amplify the risk of respiratory arrest.

“People need to look out for each other and be alert to any signs of an opioid overdose, such as shallow breathing, loss of consciousness and blue lips or fingertips. If someone does overdose it’s vital to act fast, call for an ambulance immediately.

“We strongly advise all drug users to get support from local drug services, as being in treatment greatly reduces the risks of harm and overdose.”

References

1. ^{^} Essex woman missing for six years may have been murdered (www.essexlive.news)