NSW Health is warning of the danger of using drugs such as cocaine or methamphetamine, after 11 recent severe opioid overdoses in people believed to be using the drugs.
It advised that heroin was the opioid identified in the eight overdoses where samples were available.
The warning follows a public health alert in Nov last year, where three similar instances of overdose were linked to heroin contamination.
NSW Poisons Information Centre Medical Director, Dr Darren Roberts, said drugs unexpectedly containing opioids can cause severe overdose or death.
"Opioid overdoses can quickly result from a single line or point," Dr Roberts said.
"It is important that people recognise the signs of an opioid overdose early and know how to respond.
"In light of this detection, people who use drugs or opioids should carry naloxone."
Naloxone should be given immediately if available, stated NSW Health.
Naloxone is an important life-saving medication that reverses the effects of opioids.
It does not require a prescription and is free for anyone at risk of opioid overdose, stated NSW Health.
It is available as an easy to use nasal spray or injection from some pharmacies.
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