- Counterfeit (fake) 'Xanax' containing a novel benzodiazepine and a strong synthetic opioid has been found in the ACT.
- This mix of drugs could cause overdose or death.
- This drug combination has not previously been found in the ACT.
- Any use of illicit and counterfeit (fake) drugs carries a risk to health.
What is the issue?
A mix of dangerous drugs has been found in counterfeit (fake) 'Xanax' in Canberra. Multiple benzodiazepines (including bromazolam, a strong non-registered benzodiazepine, alprazolam and diazepam) and a very strong synthetic opioid (protonitazene) have been detected in a sample tested at the CanTEST Health and Drug Checking Service. Consuming this mix of illicit drugs could be life threatening.
Why is this dangerous?
There is the increased risk of overdose and death from a combination of a strong synthetic opioid and a benzodiazepine, especially when it is unexpected. Counterfeit (fake) drugs can look very similar to legitimate products. You should only consume benzodiazepines that have been prescribed to you by a doctor and dispensed by a pharmacy. There is the potential for contaminants in counterfeit (fake) products that can increase the risk of severe adverse effects.
What do I do if I have taken counterfeit (fake) 'Xanax'?
If you experience unexpected or adverse drug effects, feel unwell, or are with someone who does, seek urgent medical attention at a hospital emergency department or call emergency triple zero (000) and ask for an ambulance.
Signs of an opioid overdose can include:
- drowsiness
- difficulty speaking or walking
- loss of consciousness
- unusual (slow or obstructed) breathing, or
- skin turning blue or grey.
The risk of harms from illicit substances is higher if you are alone, or use them in combination with other drugs including alcohol.
Take Home Naloxone
