Dangerous batch of synthetic cannabinoids in lower North Island linked to death and serious hospitalisation

Tuesday, 20 April 2021

Health authorities are warning of a “very dangerous” batch of synthetic cannabinoids that is likely linked to at least one death and another serious hospitalisation in the lower North Island.

On Thursday, High Alert, a drug warning system run by Drug Information and Alert New Zealand (DIANZ) issued a notification regarding the batch, which it said was very likely circulating in the Wellington region, Palmerston North, Wairarapa, and possibly other parts of the country.

“High Alert recommends extreme caution consuming synthetic cannabinoids (also known as synnies), especially in these locations at this time.

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“People may collapse or drop, foam at the mouth, or experience temporary paralysis,” said the notification.

High Alert is asking for anyone who has heard reports of the substance to notify them anonymously on their report unusual effects page with the alert ID is N20/0018.

A coroner’s report in 2019 found more than 70 deaths in the previous two years are likely to have been caused by synthetic cannabinoids, creating growing concerns among health and addiction experts.

RECOGNISING THE DRUG

– The appearances and effects of synthetic cannabinoids can vary, they are usually described as white, off-white, or yellow/brown powders that are dissolved, sprayed onto dehydrated plant material, and smoked.

– There is often a chemical smell and the sprayed plant material may be sticky - it is noticeably different from cannabis.

Immediate effects may include:

• Fast or irregular heartbeat

• Sedation, drowsiness

• Slowed reaction times

• Difficulty breathing

• Nausea, or vomiting

• Seizures

• Tremors

• Temporary paralysis

• Confusion, loss of touch with reality

• Paranoia, anxiety and panic attacks

• Loss of consciousness

• Death