A law change this year means the Ministry of Health can now provide on-the-spot testing of illegal substances at venues across NZ. A number of providers are being trained in the use of reagents and field equipment to prevent harm from illegal drugs. Video / NZ Herald
A MDMA tablet laced with methamphetamine has been found, the first of its kind in New Zealand.
Analysed by the Institute for Environmental Science and Research, it was the first time MDMA and meth had been found in combination in a tablet in Aotearoa.
The tablets were triangular and reportedly came in a range of colours from red to pink/orange.
NZ Police's national drug intelligence bureau manager Blair Macdonald confirmed to the Herald today they were aware methamphetamine has been found in MDMA tables for the first time.
"Methamphetamine is much more expensive than MDMA, so to have methamphetamine being sold as MDMA is highly unusual and on that basis, we don't believe these tablets are being manufactured here in New Zealand," Macdonald said.
"We believe it's likely these tablets have been brought in by people genuinely thinking they are MDMA, but it turned out to have some methamphetamine in them as well."
Head's up everyone! A combo of meth and MDMA has been found in triangular ‘Mitsubishi’ brand tablet in the North Island....
"Methamphetamine and MDMA when mixed could have some nasty effects, and these tablets have been linked to at least one report of harm," High Alert's website read.
Side-effects from taking the tablets could include:
• Increased levels of anxiety/paranoia • Insomnia (an inability or difficulty to fall asleep) • Changes in mood • Confusion or disorientation • Stimulant-like effects as opposed to feelings of empathy and emotional connection you may expect from MDMA
Combining different stimulant drugs could increase blood pressure and heighten the risk of suffering a stroke or heart attack.
Methamphetamine, seen here in crystal form, inflicted serious harm on New Zealand communities. Photo / NZME
It could also increase the risk of experiencing anxiety, panic attacks or stimulant-induced psychosis.
"The establishment of New Zealand's drug early warning system, High Alert, exists to identify new and dangerous substances entering the domestic market and to provide warnings to the community," Macdonald said.
People were encouraged to get their drugs checked at upcoming clinics run by organisations including KnowYourStuffNZ and the Drug Foundation.
There were 10 clinics organised for June, held in Wellington, Christchurch, Dunedin, Ohakune, Hamilton and Auckland.
People were advised to call an ambulance if someone who had consumed drugs exhibited the following symptoms:
• is unconscious • stops breathing • has a seizure • is extremely agitated for longer than 15 minutes • has chest pain or breathing difficulties for longer than five minutes
Support for those concerned about drinking or drug-taking could receive free and confidential support via the Alcohol Drug Helpline on 0800 787 797, or text 8681.
