Ecstasy tablets that comprise about twice the typical dosage in NSW are being offered by drug sellers across the state.
The MDMA drug is being offered in a pill with a skull-design and a ‘MYBRAND’ emblem on the again. The tablets have been present in pink-orange and blue, containing 181 to 216 mg of MDMA.
NSW Well being issued a warning in regards to the tablets on Thursday, saying the looks of the drug doesn’t reliably point out what it comprises.
They suggested towards taking a number of or higher-dose ecstasy tablets, mixing them with different stimulant medication, or taking them in sizzling environments akin to music festivals.
Excessive doses of MDMA have been linked to critical sicknesses and loss of life within the state.
Medical Director of the NSW Poisons Data Centre, Dr Darren Roberts, mentioned MDMA portions in a pill or capsule “can fluctuate lots, even throughout the similar batch”.
“Sizzling environments, akin to at music festivals, improve the danger of hurt from MDMA,” he mentioned.
“Taking a break from dancing, looking for shade, and ingesting water are necessary measures to cut back the danger of overheating.
“It is extremely necessary to recollect, for those who or a pal has taken medication and really feel unwell, you received’t get into bother for looking for medical care. “If you happen to or a pal feels unwell, please search assist instantly by calling triple-zero.”
Dr David Caldicott of the Australian Nationwide College mentioned when MDMA is used legally and medicinally, doses can fluctuate between 75-110mg.
He’s additionally the medical lead for Tablet Testing Australia and CanTEST, that are a number of the solely drug-checking providers endorsed by the federal government. Once they take a look at for MDMA, Dr Caldicott mentioned tablets are normally between “100-125mg”.
“You’ve no concept if that’s obtained 200 mg or 100 mg,” he mentioned, concerning ecstasy tablets being offered on the streets. “Capsules akin to this may be harmful not solely due to their dose, however due to contamination with one thing else.”
Dr Caldicott mentioned medication akin to MDMA enable for a build-up of serotonin – “which is that this cheerful, comfortable, hugging neurotransmitter within the regular course of occasions.”
“However overdose may cause seizures, cardiac issues and overheating,” he mentioned.
Overheating implies that the drug diminishes a human’s means to lose warmth, which may trigger critical issues for the human physique.
“It’s [becoming] a warmer nation, and that’s going to make these medication extra harmful,” Dr Caldicott mentioned.
To these considering a better dose is one thing they will in all probability deal with, Dr Caldicott in contrast this to somebody saying, “I drink beer on a regular basis, subsequently I’m going to have a pint of vodka”.
For these looking for info and recommendation, the Alcohol and Drug Data Service operates 24/7 and gives confidential and nameless counselling over the telephone. They are often reached at 1800 250 015.