An urgent warning has been issued over skull-shaped pills containing a high dose of MDMA currently circulating in one n state.
The colourful tablets with the word ‘MYBRAND’ imprinted on one side has been detected in NSW and prompted an alert from health officials.
NSW Health warned on Friday that the pills – which come in a blue, yellow, pink or orange colour – contain a higher than normal dose of MDMA.
Some of the tablets also reportedly contain dipentylone, a type of synthetic drug which has stimulant effects on the user.
Medical Director of the NSW Poisons Information Centre Dr Darren Roberts said taking high does of MDMA can cause serious illness or death.
He said symptoms of the illegal drug include severe agitation, raised body temperature, seizures and irregular heart rhythm.
‘The amount of MDMA in a tablet or capsule can vary significantly, even within the same batch,’ Dr Roberts said.
‘The health risks from MDMA are greatly increased if high amounts (including multiple doses) are consumed over a short period.’
Dr Roberts urged people to be aware of the effects of taking MDMA in certain places, which can heighten the risk of serious illness.
‘Hot environments, such as at music festivals, increase the risk of harm from MDMA,’ he said.
‘Taking a break from dancing, seeking shade and drinking water are important measures to reduce the risk of overheating.’
Aussies have also been warned against taking MDMA with other stimulants including amphetamines and cocaine.
One per cent of Aussies aged 14 and over consumed methamphetamine and amphetamine between 2022 and 2023, according to figures from the n Institute of Health and Welfare.
A study conducted by the National Wastewater Drug Monitoring Program revealed had the sixth highest average total stimulant consumption among countries surveyed between March and May 2022.
was ranked behind the United States, The Czech Republic, Sweden, Belgium and Netherlands at 44 doses per 1,000 people per day.
Anyone who takes drugs and requires medical care should call triple zero.