A dangerous drug linked to deaths overseas is being sold as MDMA in Auckland, prompting a warning for the public.
Earlier this week High Alert, NZ's early warning system for dangerous drugs, said the potent stimulant Alpha-PVP has been detected in the region.
It looks like an off-white powder but is far stronger than MDMA, and can cause paranoia, mania, a racing heart, and hallucinations.
High Alert warns the public to take "extreme caution" and avoid taking any unknown white powders.
"Alpha-PVP has been implicated in harm including deaths internationally, especially when used in combination with other substances," it said on its site.
"The worry is that this substance may continue to be sold as MDMA. It is unknown how widespread the circulation of this powder is."
High Alert's advice to reduce harm:
- Use a reagent test to check it first. Marquis and Mandelin reagents will turn black if there is any MDMA present in the mixture and will not change colour if there is only Alpha-PVP
- Lower doses are less risky - a usual dose for MDMA can have between 4 and 10 doses of Alpha-PVP in it. Start off with a small amount to check how it affects you
- In general, swallowing a substance has a slower onset than other methods and means there might be more time to get medical help if needed
- Avoid using it at the same time as other substances, especially other stimulants
- Avoid using alone. Have a buddy who can help, and call an ambulance, if things go wrong
- Avoid taking more. Alpha-PVP can cause you to feel a very strong urge to take more and this greatly increases the risk to your health
Call 111 for an ambulance immediately if you or someone else:
- Feels extremely agitated or anxious
- Feels paranoid or manic
- Has a very fast-beating heart
- Experiences tremors, convulsions, or seizures
- Has suicidal thoughts
