Police have issued a warning after a dangerous synthetic opioid - said to be 1,000 times more potent than morphine - was found at the scene of two deaths in Essex.
A man and a woman in their 40s were found dead at a property in Basildon on Tuesday, and officers identified the presence of etonitazene at the scene.
Essex Police says the opioid is “of similar or higher toxicity” to potent drug fentanyl, and is urging drug users to take extra precautions.
“This substance may pose a high risk to users and anyone handling it,” said the force.
“Synthetic opioids are occasionally added to illicit drugs like heroin to enhance the potency, but they substantially increase the risk of respiratory arrest in users.
Officers investigating two deaths in #Basildon which are believed to be drug-related are issuing safety advice to users after identifying a harmful synthetic opioid.
— Essex Police (@EssexPoliceUK) June 13, 2023
We are working hard to investigate this incident and prevent any further deaths.https://t.co/d21T2LfG8b pic.twitter.com/WYENxSt9XS
“Our officers are working hard to investigate this incident and, crucially, prevent any further deaths.”
Detective Inspector Kevin Hughes urged people to avoid illegal drugs altogether.
“I would urge people not to take any illegal substances at any time, but particularly not at this time,” he said.
“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.”
