NSW Health is warning of the potential dangers from a potent opioid (isotonitazene) detected in drugs in a yellow powder form on the NSW Central Coast.
The powder may be related to recent deaths which are under investigation.
Medical Director of the NSW Poisons Information Centre, Associate Professor Darren Roberts, said drugs containing a potent opioid such as isotonitazene can cause unexpected and severe overdose or death.
Nitazenes can be as strong, or stronger than fentanyl and may be more likely to affect breathing than other opioids.
"It's important people recognise the signs of an opioid overdose early and know how to respond.
"Taking the appropriate action early can save a life," Roberts said.
"Opioid overdose symptoms can include pin-point pupils, drowsiness, loss of consciousness, slow breathing/snoring or skin turning blue or grey."
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