A new synthetic drug “indistinguishable” from MDMA has been seized by Customs at the border, prompting a warning from High Alert.
The seizure of the synthetic cathinone, N-isopropylbutylone, was the first confirmed detection of the drug in New Zealand. It was also identified by drug checkers in a sample of presumed MDMA within the last week.
Drug information service High Alert said it was “almost certain” the drug would be misrepresented as MDMA if it continued to enter the market.
High Alert urged caution and recommended people have their drugs checked to help minimise harm.
The N-isopropylbutylone was found in a beige powder/crystal form that was “indistinguishable” from MDMA by sight.
High Alert said there was no information about the health risks, long-term side effects, or dosage of the drug.
“As a synthetic cathinone, it possibly has stimulant effects, but its exact effects and toxicity are impossible to predict. Small changes to chemical structures can greatly change the toxicity and subjective effects of substances.
“Some synthetic cathinones have lower active doses than MDMA, meaning people may unexpectedly take a larger dose than intended if it has been misrepresented.”
It said the physical side effects of N-isopropylbutylone may be like those of other synthetic cathinones. They include stimulation, high blood pressure, rapid heart rate, inability for body to regulate temperature, appetite suppression, compulsive redosing, loss of consciousness, or even death.
“In general, synthetic cathinones can feel like a mild dose of MDMA. If a person takes more, they are at risk of overdosing. Synthetic cathinones can also cause a person to feel anxious, agitated, and paranoid,” High Alert said.
“Some people also experience headaches, stomach aches, and have difficulty sleeping. There have also been situations in New Zealand where people have lost consciousness or had seizures and required medical attention.”
If people decide to take the drug, High Alert recommended using a regent test, taking it in lower doses, swallowing it for a slower onset, not using it with other substances, and to avoid using it alone.
It urged people who have taken the drug to call 111 if they or someone they know starts feeling extremely agitated, anxious, paranoid, or manic, experiencing a very fast heartbeat, tremors, convulsions, seizures, or suicidal thoughts.
It also recommended people call the National Poisons Centre on 0800 764 766 (0800 POISON).
More information on synthetic cathinones can be found on the NZ Drug Foundation website.
