Nitazene warning after drugs seized on island

Public health officials have issued a warning after tests found a highly potent synthetic opioid in drugs seized by authorities.

The alert has been issued in the Isle of Man, where substances recently examined were found to contain nitazenes.

Officials said the drugs are much stronger than heroin and are more likely to lead to overdose, hospitalisation and death.

Public Health Isle of Man, said: "It is safest not to use drugs but if you choose to please exercise caution."

People are being urged never to mix drugs, as combining substances can increase the risk of an overdose.

Advice also warns against using drugs while alone, with users encouraged to look out for each other and call 999 immediately if they suspect someone has overdosed.

Officials advised people at risk of an opioid overdose, or those who know someone at risk, to carry Naloxone.

The medication temporarily reverses the effects of an opioid overdose and is available on the island, through the Isle of Man government website.

• Nitazenes were first developed in the 1950s as a pain-killing medication but are so potent and addictive they have never been approved for medical or therapeutic use
• Injected, inhaled or swallowed, mixing them with other drugs and alcohol is extremely dangerous and significantly increases the risk of overdose and death
• The new drugs are covered by the UK's Psychoactive Substances Act 2016

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