Drug checking follow-up testing results

Substance presumed to be: Diazepam

Date brought in for testing: First week of April, 2024

Substances detected in the sample: (Preliminary result) N-Desethyletonitazene

Please note: The final result for this sample is still being reviewed by the laboratory, and is subject to change. If this was your sample, you can return to the Drug Checking clinic you attended, for additional advice to keep you and your community safer. 

We did not detect any benzodiazepine in this sample. The only substance identified was desethyletonitazene, a very potent novel opioid drug. Desethyletonitazene may be up to 10 times as potent as fentanyl. Fentanyl test strips will not detect the presence of a nitazene. 

Different nitazenes can have dramatically different potencies, including when injected versus taking orally (can be exponentially more potent taken intravenously). Nitazenes are associated with high degrees of harm in NZ, including hospitalisation and death. Both opioid-naïve and opioid-experienced clients are highly at risk of overdose or death from nitazenes. Volumetric dosing can be particularly challenging with nitazenes due to differences in solubility compared with other opioids, and is not necessarily an easy way to reduce risks when taking nitazenes. 

Opioid overdose is life-threatening and often fatal. If you choose to take this substance, know the signs of overdose: slow/shallow/no breathing, blue lips/fingertips, tiny / unresponsive pupils of the eye. We strongly recommend having naloxone (opioid overdose antidote) on hand – you can obtain a kit from your local Needle Exchange Provider (https://www.nznep.org.nz/outlets). Multiple doses of naloxone may be required to reverse an overdose, and it may wear off before the effect of the opioid dose, leading to recurrence of overdose. It is important to remain with a person who has overdosed after administering Naloxone to ensure they are ok and to provide support if overdose does reoccur. We strongly recommend having multiple naloxone ampoules or doses of Nyxoid (nasal spray) if you intend to take nitazenes, and strongly advise calling 111 for an ambulance in addition to naloxone administration if overdose occurs. 

Overdose and death and dramatically more likely in combination with other depressants: alcohol, opioids, benzodiazepines, dissociatives, G/1,4-BD. Especially, novel benzos with long half-lives (e.g. bromazolam) taken in the last few days are significantly more likely to contribute to overdose from nitazenes. Nitazenes should not be taken alone – a trusted friend who knows the dosage a person has taken, route of administration, other drugs consumed, signs of overdose and naloxone administration should be present to provide first aid and seek medical support if needed. You won’t get in trouble for calling an ambulance – they only want to ensure you are safe and breathing.

Contact: DISC Drug Checking team drugchecking@nznep.org.nz or 0273150929

Substance presumed to be: Amphetamine 

Date brought in for testing: 6th April, 2024 

Substances detected in the sample: Ephedrine 

Ephedrine is a prescription stimulant used for treating colds. It may produce some stimulant effects. Active doses are a bit lower than that of amphetamine, so taking a smaller dose is recommended. 

Click here for more information on how to be safer when using Ephedrine. 

Substance presumed to be: GHB

Date brought in for testing: 4th April, 2024 

Substances detected in the sample: NMP (1-Methyl-2-pyrrolidone) with traces of 1,4 BD and traces of GBL

NMP is an industrial solvent that does not appear to have psychoactive properties. It is considered a toxic chemical and is likely dangerous to ingest. It is recommended not to take this substance. 

Please contact us via The Level contact page if you have further questions about this sample.

Click here for more information on how to be safer when using GHB. 

Substance presumed to be: MDMA

Date brought in for testing: First week of April, 2024

Substances detected in the sample: MDMA

This sample was consistent with the presence of MDMA. We are unable to determine the amount of MDMA contained, however it is common for illicit pressed pills to contain multiple "doses" of MDMA in Aotearoa. A single dose of MDMA is typically approximately 80-120 mg (depending on your body), and it's not easy to tell how many doses have been put into one pill. You can sometimes tell by the scored marking on the back, the dose a pill is advertised as containing, or a Drug Checking clinic may be able to see signs that indicate multiple doses may be present. 

When MDMA pills contain multiple doses, it can be challenging to know how much to take, has been taken, or to predict the effects that a pill may cause. High doses of MDMA greatly increase the risk of side effects, and risk of interactions with other drugs or medications you may be taking.

The best way to stay safer when taking pills containing unknown amounts of MDMA is to crush a pill up finely, mix it well to ensure the drug contained is evenly distributed, and to divide the powder into sections (e.g. four or eight equal parts), then consume one of those parts and wait 30-45 minutes to see how it affects your body. If you experience any concerning side effects after taking this substance - especially uncontrolled temperature/shivering, agitation/paranoia, an abnormally fast heartbeat, or splitting headache - phone 111 immediately and seek medical support. 

Click here for more information on staying safer when taking MDMA. 

Contact: DISC Drug Checking team drugchecking@nznep.org.nz or 0273150929

Substance presumed to be: MDMA

Date brought in for testing: First week of April, 2024

Substances detected in the sample: Traces of ketamine, paracetamol, dimethyl sulfone (MSM)

We did not detect any MDMA in this sample. The psychoactive drug that was found in this sample – ketamine – was present only in traces that could be detected by the laboratory analysis. We are unable to determine how much ketamine may be present in this sample. 

We also detected paracetamol (a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug, commonly sold as Panadol) and a common filler dimethyl sulfone (abbreviation: MSM). Dimethyl sulfone is a relatively inert and harmless filler substance when taken in quantities up to several grams, and is generally regarded as safe for human consumption. Paracetamol can be harmful when taken in large quantities, and can cause liver damage and death if taken beyond the maximum recommended dosage (for adults: no more than 4 grams in 24 hours). 

If you choose to take this substance, we recommend avoiding combining it with alcohol, as it makes liver damage much more likely to occur. If you realise you’ve taken too much, or you experience a severe allergic reaction, unexpected abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, yellow skin/eyes or extreme confusion or sleepiness, call 111 immediately and seek medical support.

Click here for information on staying safer when taking ketamine. 

Contact: DISC Drug Checking team drugchecking@nznep.org.nz or 0273150929

Substance presumed to be: Novel benzodiazepine

Date brought in for testing: Third week of April, 2024

Substances detected in the sample: Benzodiazepine (unspecified)

This sample was unable to be conclusively identified at the drug checking clinic it was brought to, but did produce a positive reaction on a Benzodiazepine Test Strip – indicating the presence of a benzodiazepine drug. Different benzos (and especially novel ones, such as those with “flu” at the beginning of the name) can have very different effective dosages, and effects when taken. We recommend returning to the clinic you attended to submit a sample for further checking – this is a totally anonymous way to send a sample to a laboratory for a more specific identification of the drug contained. 

Broadly speaking, novel benzodiazepines often produce similar effects as better-known benzos, but can cause unexpectedly large side effects - particularly sedation (drowsiness) and amnesia (memory loss). Some of these novel benzos have a long "elimination half-life" or time until the drug clears your body. This means that even when you no longer feel affected by the drug, there may still be enough in your blood to make the effects of other drugs unexpectedly or unpredictably strong, which can cause someone to overdose. Even the next day after taking this drug, it is much easier to overdose from taking other substances: especially opioids, alcohol, ketamine, G/1,4-BD/Waz or additional benzo. 

In liquid form, it can be challenging to know how much of the drug you may have taken. Often the person selling it may have purchased or sold it as a different benzo, or may have mixed a different amount of drug / doses in than would be ideal. If someone chooses to take this substance, we recommend starting with a small amount first (e.g. a quarter of the amount of liquid the vendor has indicated as containing “one dose” for the presumed drug) and waiting an hour to see how it affects you, and having a trusted person nearby who can seek medical help if needed. If someone experiences concerning symptoms (especially slowed breathing / unconsciousness) after taking this drug, call 111 immediately and seek medical support.

Contact: DISC Drug Checking team drugchecking@nznep.org.nz or 0273150929

Substance presumed to be: Unknown

Date brought in for checking: Second week of March, 2024

Substances detected in the sample: Traces of Loperamide – no benzodiazepine detected.

When this substance was presented for checking, we were unable to determine the active drug it contained, due to the large amount of filler material (consistent with some pharmaceutical pills). A benzodiazepine strip test at the time indicated this sample may have contained a benzodiazepine drug – however, this finding was not confirmed by the laboratory. Forensic analysis identified only loperamide in this sample.

Loperamide is an anti-diarrheal drug, which works on opioid receptors in the gut to slow muscle contraction and relieve symptoms. We are not able to determine the amount of loperamide contained in this sample.

Contact: DISC Drug Checking team drugchecking@nznep.org.nz or 0273150929

Substance presumed to be: Methamphetamine

Date brought in for testing: Thursday 28^th of March, 2024

Substances detected in the sample:  Isopropylbenzylamine (n-iso) only – no methamphetamine was detected.

This sample was found to only contain n-iso (isopropylbenzylamine), a substitute for methamphetamine. N-iso produces no positive psychoactive effects, and can instead cause heavy, sluggish, unwell feelings when it is taken and over time.

You can use reagents at home to check if any methamphetamine is present in a sample – a Marquis reagent test (EZTest Ecstasy test from Cosmic) will turn orange/brown if any amphetamine is in a sample. Simon’s reagent test can then be used to clarify if a result indicates methamphetamine (blue reaction) or amphetamine (no reaction to Simon’s). A positive reagent reaction can still mean other substances are present – we recommend checking on an FTIR spectrometer at our clinic to identify if multiple substances may be in your sample.

Contact: DISC Drug Checking team drugchecking@nznep.org.nz or 0273150929

Substance presumed to be: Methamphetamine

Date brought in for testing: Thursday 28^th of March, 2024

Substances detected in the sample:  Isopropylbenzylamine (n-iso) only – no methamphetamine was detected.

This sample was found to only contain n-iso (isopropylbenzylamine), a substitute for methamphetamine. N-iso produces no positive psychoactive effects, and can instead cause heavy, sluggish, unwell feelings when it is taken and over time.

You can use reagents at home to check if any methamphetamine is present in a sample – a Marquis reagent test (EZTest Ecstasy test from Cosmic) will turn orange/brown if any amphetamine is in a sample. Simon’s reagent test can then be used to clarify if a result indicates methamphetamine (blue reaction) or amphetamine (no reaction to Simon’s). A positive reagent reaction can still mean other substances are present – we recommend checking on an FTIR spectrometer at our clinic to identify if multiple substances may be in your sample.

Contact: DISC Drug Checking team drugchecking@nznep.org.nz or 0273150929

Substance presumed to be: Methamphetamine

Date brought in for testing: Thursday 28^th of March, 2024

Substances detected in the sample:  Isopropylbenzylamine (n-iso) only – no methamphetamine was detected.

This sample was found to only contain n-iso (isopropylbenzylamine), a substitute for methamphetamine. N-iso produces no positive psychoactive effects, and can instead cause heavy, sluggish, unwell feelings when it is taken and over time.

You can use reagents at home to check if any methamphetamine is present in a sample – a Marquis reagent test (EZTest Ecstasy test from Cosmic) will turn orange/brown if any amphetamine is in a sample. Simon’s reagent test can then be used to clarify if a result indicates methamphetamine (blue reaction) or amphetamine (no reaction to Simon’s). A positive reagent reaction can still mean other substances are present – we recommend checking on an FTIR spectrometer at our clinic to identify if multiple substances may be in your sample.

Contact: DISC Drug Checking team drugchecking@nznep.org.nz or 0273150929

Substance presumed to be: Unknown

Date brought in for testing: First week of March, 2024

Substances detected in the sample:  Traces of Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC)

This sample was found to contain traces of THC, the main psychoactive drug present in cannabis flower products. We're unable to determine how much THC was contained. Cannabis can produce a range of side-effects for different people, including hyperemesis (vomiting).

Contact: DISC Drug Checking team drugchecking@nznep.org.nz or 0273150929

Substance presumed to be: Unknown

Date brought in for testing: Second week of March, 2024

Substances detected in the sample:  Traces of bromazolam

This sample was found to contain bromazolam - a novel benzodiazepine drug. This substance produces some similar effects as better-known benzos, but can cause unexpectedly large side effects - particularly drowsiness and memory loss. In humans, bromazolam has a large "elimination half-life", meaning that even when you no longer feel affected by the drug, there is still enough in your blood to make the effects of other drugs unexpectedly or unpredictably strong, which can cause someone to overdose. Even the next day after taking this drug, it is much easier to overdose from taking other substances: especially opioids, alcohol, ketamine, G/BD/Waz or additional benzo.

In pressed pills, it is difficult to know how much you bromazlam you may have taken - often the person selling it may have purchased or sold it as a different benzo, and put a different amount of drug / doses in than would be ideal. If someone chooses to take this substance, we recommend starting with a small amount first (e.g. a quarter of a dose) and waiting 30-45 minutes to see how it affects you, and having a trusted person nearby who can seek medical help if needed. If someone experiences concerning symptoms (especially slowed breathing / unconsciousness) after taking this drug, call 111 immediately and seek medical support.

Contact: DISC Drug Checking team drugchecking@nznep.org.nz or 0273150929

Substance presumed to be: Unknown

Date brought in for testing: Second week of March, 2024

Substances detected in the sample: Bromazolam

This sample was found to contain bromazolam - a novel benzodiazepine drug. This substance produces some similar effects as better-known benzos, but can cause unexpectedly large side effects - particularly drowsiness and memory loss. In humans, bromazolam has a large "elimination half-life", meaning that even when you no longer feel affected by the drug, there is still enough in your blood to make the effects of other drugs unexpectedly or unpredictably strong, which can cause someone to overdose. Even the next day after taking this drug, it is much easier to overdose from taking other substances: especially opioids, alcohol, ketamine, G/BD/Waz or additional benzo.

In pressed pills, it is difficult to know how much you bromazlam you may have taken - often the person selling it may have purchased or sold it as a different benzo, and put a different amount of drug / doses in than would be ideal. If someone chooses to take this substance, we recommend starting with a small amount first (e.g. a quarter of a dose) and waiting 30-45 minutes to see how it affects you, and having a trusted person nearby who can seek medical help if needed. If someone experiences concerning symptoms (especially slowed breathing / unconsciousness) after taking this drug, call 111 immediately and seek medical support.

Contact: DISC Drug Checking team drugchecking@nznep.org.nz or 0273150929

Substance presumed to be: Nitazene

Date brought in for testing: Third week of March, 2024

Substances detected in the sample:  Preliminary result: Protonitazepyne (pyrrolidinyl-protonitazene) or Isotonitazepyne (pyrrolidinyl-isotonitazene)

Please note: The final result for this sample is still being reviewed by the laboratory, and is subject to change. If this was your sample, you can return to the Drug Checking clinic you attended, for additional advice to keep you and your community safer. 

We are not able to verify precisely which nitazene opioid this sample contained, however, it was consistent with a pyro-type nitazene (nitazepyne).  Different nitazenes can have dramatically different potencies, including when injected versus taking orally (can be exponentially more potent taken intravenously). Protonitazene and isotonitazene are more potent than (e.g.) metonitazene, and are more strongly associated with overdose and death.  Nitazepyne (pyrrolidinyl) nitazenes especially can be dramatically more potent than their regular counterparts. Nitazenes are associated with high degrees of harm in NZ, including hospitalisation and death. Both opioid-naïve and opioid-experienced clients are highly at risk of overdose or death from nitazenes. Volumetric dosing can be particularly challenging with nitazenes due to differences in solubility compared with other opioids, and is not necessarily an easy way to reduce risks when taking nitazenes. 

Opioid overdose is life-threatening and often fatal. If you choose to take this substance, know the signs of overdose: slow/shallow/no breathing, blue lips/fingertips, tiny / unresponsive pupils of the eye. We strongly recommend having naloxone (opioid overdose antidote) on hand – you can obtain a kit from your local Needle Exchange Provider (https://www.nznep.org.nz/outlets). Multiple doses of naloxone may be required to reverse an overdose, and it may wear off before the effect of the opioid dose, leading to recurrence of overdose. It is important to remain with a person who has overdosed after administering Naloxone to ensure they are ok and to provide support if overdose does reoccur. We strongly recommend having multiple naloxone ampoules or doses of Nyxoid (nasal spray) if you intend to take nitazenes, and strongly advise calling 111 for an ambulance in addition to naloxone administration if overdose occurs.

Overdose and death and dramatically more likely in combination with other depressants: alcohol, opioids, benzodiazepines, dissociatives, G/1,4-BD. Especially, novel benzos with long half-lives (e.g. bromazolam) taken in the last few days are significantly more likely to contribute to overdose from nitazenes. Nitazenes should not be taken alone – a trusted friend who knows the dosage a person has taken, route of administration, other drugs consumed, signs of overdose and naloxone administration should be present to provide first aid and seek medical support if needed. You won’t get in trouble for calling an ambulance – they only want to ensure you are safe and breathing.

Contact: DISC Drug Checking team drugchecking@nznep.org.nz or 0273150929

Substance presumed to be: Unknown

Date brought in for testing: Third week of March, 2024

Substances detected in the sample: (Preliminary result) Ketamine, Nimetazepam, Caffeine

Please note: The final result for this sample is still being reviewed by the laboratory, and is subject to change. If this was your sample, you can return to the Drug Checking clinic you attended, for additional advice to keep you and your community safer. 

This substance was unable to be identified at the Drug Checking clinic - however laboratory analysis indicates 3 psychoactive drugs may be present. We are unable to determine how much of each drug may be present, and recommend strong caution if you choose to take this substance. 

Ketamine is a dissociative anaesthetic commonly used both in medicine and recreation, which can cause effects including hallucinations, worsened coordination, and altered perception of reality. At higher doses, a phenomenon termed the "K hole" may be experienced, which can be alarming or hazardous if you aren't highly experienced and expecting it. It's essential to know how much of this drug you may have taken to stay safer when taking it, especially as ketamine's effects can be more strongly pronounced when taken in combination with other substances. 

Nimetazepam is a benzodiazepine drug, which can cause effects including sedation, reduction of anxiety, and at higher doses, there is a high risk of amnesia, very strange decision-making, and unconsciousness or death. Taken regularly, benzodiazepines can be highly addictive and dependence-causing. Stopping taking benzodiazepines suddenly can be dangerous once dependence develops - if you're concerned about stopping taking benzos, reach out to a trusted medical professional to find a safe way to stop taking these drugs. 

Caffeine is a legal stimulant drug, which cause cause wakefulness and euphoria, but also carries risk of side effects including anxiety. In some combinations with other drugs, caffeine can increase your risk of side effects including brain toxicity. We recommend taking care and having a plan for if something goes wrong when taking caffeine with other drugs. 

The combination of these substances, and their unknown dosage, may produce dramatically unexpected effects and risk of overdose. In particular, the combination of ketamine and nimetazepam is likely to create risk of unconsciousness or stopping breathing. We strongly recommend avoiding taking this substance in high doses or in combination with other drugs. If you choose to take this substance, start with a very low dose (10 milligrams or less) and wait at least an hour to see how it affects you, and have a trusted friend with you who can get medical help if needed. 

Contact: DISC Drug Checking team drugchecking@nznep.org.nz or 0273150929

Substance presumed to be: MDMA

Date brought in for testing: Third week of March, 2024

Substances detected in the sample: N-butylpentylone, dimethylsulfone (MSM), traces of isopropylbenzylamine

This substance contained a high-risk cathinone (also known as bath salts), n-butylpentylone. Dimethyl sulfone (MSM) is a relatively inert and harmless filler substance when taken in quantities up to several grams, and is generally regarded as safe for human consumption. Isopropylbenzylamine (n-iso / IPBA) is a somewhat common additive to stimulants, which cause effects of feeling slightly unwell, especially when taken regularly.  It is common to see this sample format containing MDMA, and we recommend assuming there is an undetermined amount of MDMA present in this sample as well. 

n-butylpentylone is relatively new to Aotearoa, but is highly related to a high-risk cathinone (n-ethylpentylone), which has caused over a dozen hospitalisations in recent years. N-butylpentylone is associated with recent harm in Aotearoa, and anecdotal reports from University Orientation week indicate this substance was not enjoyable for the people who consumed it, leaving some “feeling like death” with severe side effects.

Reagent testing: The high-risk cathinone in this sample is often combined with MDMA, which means at-home reagent tests may produce a false-positive reaction for MDMA which hides the presence of a cathinone. If you use a reagent test to identify the presence of this substance, consider that a (e.g. using Cosmic EZTest Ecstasy) yellow colour change (cathinone-like) indicates a risk, while a black (MDMA-like) reaction does not reliably mean there is no cathinone contained. Getting your drugs checked on a FTIR spectrometer is necessary to exclude the absence of a cathinone.

If you choose to take this substance: n-butylpentylone may produce similar desirable effects as other stimulants, but these are likely to peak and run out much sooner than better-known drugs. The side effects of this drug are likely to be much more intense than for MDMA (which it may be sold / represented as), and can include being stuck awake for multiple days, intense anxiety and agitation, overheating, seizure and in severe cases, death. These cathinone drugs create a strong urge to re-dose (take more), which can very quickly cause someone to take too much and experience an ‘over-amping’ type overdose. If you choose to take this substance, we recommend taking a lower dose (e.g. starting with 1/10th of the amount you might take of MDMA), and to avoid taking it without a trusted person present or combining it with other substances.

For samples containing both MDMA and cathinone: Combining more than one stimulant is more stressful for your body, and creates greater risk of negative side effects and overdose. If you experience any concerning symptoms, call 111 immediately and seek medical support.

More information on this class of substances can be found at https://www.highalert.org.nz/articles/synthetic-cathinones-explained/

Contact: DISC Drug Checking team drugchecking@nznep.org.nz or 0273150929

Substance presumed to be: MDMA

Date brought in for testing: Last week of February, 2024

Substances detected in the sample: Isoputylone or Putylone ([iso]propylbutylone)

The only substance detected in this sample was a modified cathinone, propyl-butylone. Synthetic cathinones (also known as bath salts) can be riskier and more difficult to take safely than MDMA. Not much is known about this novel drug yet, but it is highly likely that it may produce some similar desirable effects as other stimulants, which peak and run out much sooner than the presumed drug. The side effects of these drugs are usually more intense than for MDMA, and can include being stuck awake for multiple days, and intense anxiety and agitation. These drugs create a strong urge to re-dose (take more), which can very quickly cause someone to take too much and overdose. If you choose to take this substance, we recommend taking a lower dose (e.g. 1/5th of the amount you might take of MDMA), not using alone, or combining it with other substances. If someone experiences concerning symptoms (especially slowed breathing / unconsciousness) after taking this drug, call 111 immediately and seek medical support.

Contact: DISC Drug Checking team drugchecking@nznep.org.nz or 0273150929

Substance presumed to be: MDMA

Date brought in for testing: Last week of February, 2024

Substances detected in the sample: Isoputylone or Putylone ([iso]propylbutylone)

The only substance detected in this sample was a modified cathinone, propyl-butylone. Synthetic cathinones (also known as bath salts) can be riskier and more difficult to take safely than MDMA. Not much is known about this novel drug yet, but it is highly likely that it may produce some similar desirable effects as other stimulants, which peak and run out much sooner than the presumed drug. The side effects of these drugs are usually more intense than for MDMA, and can include being stuck awake for multiple days, and intense anxiety and agitation. These drugs create a strong urge to re-dose (take more), which can very quickly cause someone to take too much and overdose. If you choose to take this substance, we recommend taking a lower dose (e.g. 1/5th of the amount you might take of MDMA), not using alone, or combining it with other substances. If someone experiences concerning symptoms (especially slowed breathing / unconsciousness) after taking this drug, call 111 immediately and seek medical support.

Contact: DISC Drug Checking team drugchecking@nznep.org.nz or 0273150929

Substance presumed to be: Unknown

Date brought in for testing: Last week of February

Substances detected in the sample: Benzylpiperazine (BZP), caffeine, other drugs not conclusively identified (pending final result).

Please note: The final result for this sample is still being reviewed by the laboratory, and is subject to change. We are posting this preliminary result with a request for more information. If this was your sample, please return to the Drug Checking clinic you attended for follow-up advice to keep you and your community safer.

Forensic checking indicates this sample is likely to contain two stimulants: a psychoactive drug, benzylpiperazine (BZP), and caffeine. It is possible other psychoactive substances were also present - pending review. BZP produces stimulant effects, and was legally sold in Aotearoa in “party pills” before becoming illegal for sale in 2008. A dose range for this substance can be between 50 mg and 100 mg (a tenth of a gram) when taken in known quantities . However, we are unable to determine how much substance this sample (or others like it) may contain, or the amount of caffeine that may also be present in this sample.

It is likely this sample contained more than one psychoactive, which can carry much greater risk of unexpected and harmful effects. If someone chooses to take this substance, they should not be alone after taking it. If someone experiences any concerning symptoms after taking this substance, call 111 immediately and seek medical support.

Contact: DISC Drug Checking team drugchecking@nznep.org.nz or 0273150929

Substance presumed to be: Unknown

Date brought in for testing: Second week of February, 2024

Substances detected in the sample: (Preliminary result) Propyl (or Isopropyl)-butylone

The drug: This sample is awaiting final result, but the preliminary laboratory look indicates this substance is either of two very new, potentially high-risk cathinones (also known as bath salts).  We haven’t seen these specific substances in Aotearoa before, and don’t yet know how harmful they may be. Importantly, the modified [iso]propyl version of this drug may produce very different effects than if it was just butylone.

Reagent testing: We have seen recent instances of these cathinones combined with small amounts of MDMA, which means at-home reagent tests may produce a false-positive reaction for MDMA which hides the presence of a cathinone. If you use a reagent test to identify the presence of this substance, consider that a (e.g. using Cosmic EZTest Ecstasy) yellow colour change (cathinone-like) indicates a risk, while a black (MDMA-like) reaction does not reliably mean there is no cathinone contained. Getting your drugs checked on a FTIR spectrometer is necessary to exclude the absence of a cathinone.

If you choose to take this substance: [Iso]propylbutylone may produce similar desirable effects as other stimulants, but these are likely to peak and run out much sooner than better-known drugs. The side effects of this drug are likely to be much more intense than for MDMA (which it may be sold / represented as), and can include being stuck awake for multiple days, intense anxiety and agitation, overheating, seizure and in severe cases, death. These cathinone drugs create a strong urge to re-dose (take more), which can very quickly cause someone to take too much and experience an ‘over-amping’ type overdose. If you choose to take this substance, we recommend taking a lower dose (e.g. starting with 1/10th of the amount you might take of MDMA), and to avoid taking it without a trusted person present or combining it with other substances. If you experience any concerning symptoms, call 111 immediately and seek medical support.

Contact: DISC Drug Checking team drugchecking@nznep.org.nz or 0273150929

Substance presumed to be: MDMA

Date brought in for testing:  Second week of February, 2024

Substances detected in the sample: Paracetamol, Dimethyl sulfone (MSM)

This substance was represented as MDMA, however both our clinic and the laboratory were only able to find Paracetamol (a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug, commonly sold as Panadol) and a common filler, dimethyl sulfone (abbreviation: MSM). Dimethyl sulfone (MSM) is a relatively inert and harmless filler substance when taken in quantities up to several grams, and is generally regarded as safe for human consumption.

Paracetamol can be harmful when taken in large quantities, and can cause liver damage and death if taken beyond the maximum recommended dosage (for adults: no more than 4 grams in 24 hours). If you choose to take this substance, avoid combining it with alcohol, as it makes liver damage much more likely to occur. If you realise you’ve taken too much, or you experience a severe allergic reaction, unexpected abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, yellow skin/eyes or extreme confusion or sleepiness, call 111 immediately and seek medical support.

Substance presumed to be: Synthetic cannabinoid

Date brought in for testing: Second week of February, 2024

Substances detected in the sample: MDMB-4en-PINACA

This substance contained a high-risk synthetic cannabinoid, MDMB-4en-PINACA. This substance is highly associated with symptoms including psychosis, extreme agitation, upset body temperature, and other severe side effects. This substance has been responsible for a majority of synthetic cannabinoid deaths in previous years.

If you choose to take this substance, we recommend having starting with a lower dose, having trusted folks around who can make sure you're well and safe, and limiting the maximum dose you might take. If you experience any concerning symptoms, call 111 immediately and seek medical support.  

More information on this substance can be found at https://www.highalert.org.nz/alerts-and-notifications/serious-synthetic-cannabinoids-harm-in-christchurch/

Contact: DISC Drug Checking team drugchecking@nznep.org.nz or 0273150929

Substance presumed to be: MDMA

Date brought in for testing: Second week of February, 2024

Substances detected in the sample: n-butylpentylone, MDMA, dimethyl sulfone (MSM)

This substance contained both MDMA and a high-risk cathinone (also known as bath salts), n-butylpentylone. Dimethyl sulfone (MSM) is a relatively inert and harmless filler substance when taken in quantities up to several grams, and is generally regarded as safe for human consumption.

The drug: n-butylpentylone is relatively new to Aotearoa, but is highly related to a high-risk cathinone (n-ethylpentylone), which has caused over a dozen hospitalisations in recent years. N-butylpentylone is associated with recent harm in Aotearoa, and anecdotal reports from University Orientation week indicate this substance was not enjoyable for the people who consumed it, leaving some “feeling like death” with severe side effects.

Reagent testing: The high-risk cathinone in this sample is combined with MDMA, which means at-home reagent tests may produce a false-positive reaction for MDMA which hides the presence of a cathinone. If you use a reagent test to identify the presence of this substance, consider that a (e.g. using Cosmic EZTest Ecstasy) yellow colour change (cathinone-like) indicates a risk, while a black (MDMA-like) reaction does not reliably mean there is no cathinone contained. Getting your drugs checked on a FTIR spectrometer is necessary to exclude the absence of a cathinone.

If you choose to take this substance: n-butylpentylone may produce similar desirable effects as other stimulants, but these are likely to peak and run out much sooner than better-known drugs. The side effects of this drug are likely to be much more intense than for MDMA (which it may be sold / represented as), and can include being stuck awake for multiple days, intense anxiety and agitation, overheating, seizure and in severe cases, death. These cathinone drugs create a strong urge to re-dose (take more), which can very quickly cause someone to take too much and experience an ‘over-amping’ type overdose. If you choose to take this substance, we recommend taking a lower dose (e.g. starting with 1/10th of the amount you might take of MDMA), and to avoid taking it without a trusted person present or combining it with other substances.

This sample contained both MDMA and cathinone: Combining more than one stimulant is more stressful for your body, and creates greater risk of negative side effects and overdose. If you experience any concerning symptoms, call 111 immediately and seek medical support.

More information on this class of substances can be found at https://www.highalert.org.nz/articles/synthetic-cathinones-explained/

Contact: DISC Drug Checking team drugchecking@nznep.org.nz or 0273150929

Substance presumed to be: Unknown

Date brought in for testing: Third week of February, 2024

Substances detected in the sample:  Methyl-cyclohexanamine

Cyclohexanamines are a group of substances that produce poor (or no) psychoactive effects, but do have a high risk of causing injury.

We strongly recommend not taking this substance by any route of administration (especially injecting) – expected effects include burning at the site of administration. If someone does choose to take this substance and experiences any concerning symptoms, call 111 immediately and seek medical support.

Contact: DISC Drug Checking team drugchecking@nznep.org.nz or 0273150929

Substance presumed to be: Ketamine

Date brought in for testing: Third week of February, 2024

Substances detected in the sample:  Ketamine, traces of MDMA, traces of amphetamine

This substance was found by laboratory analysis to contain traces of additional stimulant drugs. Although only traces were detected in the small sample measured, it’s possible larger quantities of the drugs may have been present in the product that was purchased. In combination, multiple substances can commonly cause unexpected effects. If someone chooses to take this substance, we recommend starting with a lower dose than you would usually take, and having trusted people around who can seek help if something goes wrong. If someone experiences any concerning symptoms, call 111 immediately and seek medical support.

Click here for more information on how to be safer when using Ketamine.

Contact: DISC Drug Checking team drugchecking@nznep.org.nz or 0273150929

Substance Presumed to be: MDMA

Date brought in for testing: 22/02/2024

Substances detected in the sample: MDMA and n-butylpentylone + dimethylsulfone 

The result is consistent with a mixture of MDMA, n-butylpentylone and a body-safe filler dimethylsulfone. n-butylpentylone is a newly developed substituted cathinone that carries unpredictable effects. There is little information about the toxicity, effects, and abuse potential of these substances due to the novelty and extremely short history of human uses. Consumption of these particular substances has been associated with hospitalisations in Aotearoa. 

It is strongly advised not to take this sample. If choosing to consume, follow harm reduction practices such as not consuming alone, not redosing, and not consuming with other psychoactive. This sample is most similar to the Pentylone family. 

Click here for more information on how to be safer when using MDMA

Click here for more information on how to be safer when using Synthetic Cathinones

Contact Info@knowyourstuff.nz for questions 

Substance Presumed to be: MDMA

Date brought in for testing: 23/2/2024

Substances detected in the sample:  Eutylone 

The only substance detected in this sample was Eutylone - a moderately risky synthetic cathinone (also known as bath salts). Eutylone may produce similar desirable effects as other stimulants, but can peak and run out much sooner than the presumed drug. The side effects of this drug are usually more intense than for MDMA, and can include being stuck awake for multiple days, and intense anxiety and agitation. This drug creates a strong urge to re-dose (take more), which can very quickly cause someone to take too much and overdose. If you choose to take this substance, we recommend taking a lower dose (e.g. half of the amount you might take of MDMA), not using alone, or combining it with other substances.

Click here for more information on how to be safer when using Synthetic Cathinones

Contact info@knowyourstuff.nz for questions 

Substance Presumed to be: MDMA

Date brought in for testing:  23/02/24

Substances detected in the sample: Cyputylone

The only substance detected in this sample was Cyputylone - a moderately risky synthetic cathinone (also known as bath salts). Cyputylone may produce similar desirable effects as other stimulants, but can peak and run out much sooner than the presumed drug. The side effects of this drug are usually more intense than for MDMA, and can include being stuck awake for multiple days, and intense anxiety and agitation. This drug creates a strong urge to re-dose (take more), which can very quickly cause someone to take too much and overdose. If you choose to take this substance, we recommend taking a lower dose (e.g. 1/6th of the amount you might take of MDMA), not using alone, or combining it with other substances.

Click here for more information on how to be safer when using Synthetic Cathinones

Contact info@knowyourstuff.nz for questions 

Substance Presumed to be: MDMA

Date brought in for testing: 23/02/2024

Substances detected in the sample: Mephtetramine (MTTA)+ Caffeine + N-Ethylpentylone

Little is known about Mephtetramine (MTTA), user reports indicate mostly unpleasant side effects at 50mg dose, n-ethylpentylone is a high risk cathinone that has caused over a dozen hospitalisations in recent years. N-Ethylpentylone may produce similar desirable effects as other stimulants, but these are likely to peak and run out much sooner than better-known drugs. The side effects of this drug are likely to be much more intense than for MDMA (which it may be sold / represented as), and can include being stuck awake for multiple days, intense anxiety and agitation, overheating, seizure and in severe cases, death. These cathinone drugs create a strong urge to re-dose (take more), which can very quickly cause someone to take too much and experience an ‘over-amping’ type overdose. If you choose to take this substance, we recommend taking a lower dose (e.g. starting with 1/10th of the amount you might take of MDMA), and to avoid taking it without a trusted person present or combining it with other substances.

Contact info@knowyourstuff.nz for questions 

Substance Presumed to be: MDMA

Date brought in for testing: 24/2/2024

Substances detected in the sample: Dimethylpentylone

The only substance detected in this sample was Dimethylpentylone - a moderately risky synthetic cathinone (also known as bath salts). Dimethylpentylone may produce similar desirable effects as other stimulants, but can peak and run out much sooner than the presumed drug. The side effects of this drug are usually more intense than for MDMA, and can include being stuck awake for multiple days, and intense anxiety and agitation. This drug creates a strong urge to re-dose (take more), which can very quickly cause someone to take too much and overdose. If you choose to take this substance, we recommend taking a lower dose (e.g. 1/5th of the amount you might take of MDMA), not using alone, or combining it with other substances. 

Click here for more information on how to be safer when using Synthetic Cathinones

Contact info@knowyourstuff.nz for questions 

Substance Presumed to be: MDMA

Date brought in for testing: January 16th, 2024 

Substances detected in the sample: 

Harm reduction information you want to include: (otherwise, as a standard we link them to the relevant drug info pages on the site). You may want to include the FTS result or other notes about testing here.

The result is consistent with a  Butylpentylone and Butylhexedrone mixture. These are both newly developed substituted cathinones that carry unpredictable effects. 

There is little information about the toxicity, effects, and abuse potential of these substances due to the novelty and extremely short history of human uses. Consumption of these particular substances has been associated with hospitalisations in Aotearoa. 

It is strongly advised not to take this sample. If choosing to consume, follow harm reduction practices such as not consuming alone, not redosing, and not consuming with other psychoactives. This sample is most similar to the Pentylone family

Substance presumed to be: Pseudoephedrine 

Date brought in for testing: 19th January, 2024

Substances detected in the sample: 6-aminocaproic acid 

6-aminocaproic acid is a medicine that is used for some bleeding disorders. It doesn't have any psychoactive effects, but it can be dangerous to take for some people, especially if you are on other medicines or have certain medical conditions. 

Click here for more information on how to be safer when using Prescription Stimulants. 

Substance presumed to be: MDMA

Date brought in for testing: Last week of November

Substances detected in the sample: Dimethylpentylone

The only substance detected in this sample was Dimethylpentylone - a moderately risky synthetic cathinone (also known as bath salts). Dimethylpentylone may produce similar desirable effects as other stimulants, but can peak and run out much sooner than the presumed drug. The side effects of this drug are usually more intense than for MDMA, and can include being stuck awake for multiple days, and intense anxiety and agitation. This drug creates a strong urge to re-dose (take more), which can very quickly cause someone to take too much and overdose. If you choose to take this substance, we recommend taking a lower dose (e.g. 1/5th of the amount you might take of MDMA), not using alone, or combining it with other substances.

Contact: NEST Drug Checking team drugchecking@nznep.org.nz or 0273150929