NSW - Public drug warning: Multiple types of high dose MDMA (ecstasy) tablets found in NSW

Published on November 7, 2023

Multiple types of high dose MDMA (ecstasy) tablets have recently been found in NSW. 

  • Blue diamond shaped tablet with ‘punisher’ logo contained 216 mg MDMA
  • Blue skull shaped tablet with ‘MYBRAND’ logo and text contained 216 mg MDMA
  • Yellow square tablet with ‘SpongeBob’ smiley face markings contained 160 mg MDMA

These tablets contain up to twice the average amount usually contained in MDMA tablets circulating in NSW.

Other drugs including cathinones, ketamine and ketamine analogues have recently been detected in some MDMA tablets and capsules.

Tablet appearance is not a reliable indicator of drug contents

Know the risks

  • You are at increased risk of harm if you:
    • Take multiple MDMA (ecstasy) tablets or capsules
    • Take a higher-dose MDMA tablet or capsule
    • Use other stimulant drugs (e.g. amphetamines or cocaine) at the same time
    • Take MDMA in a hot environment like a music festival or indoor dance party
  • MDMA (ecstasy) is often poorly manufactured and the amount of MDMA in a tablet or capsule can vary a lot, even within the same batch.
  • The time from taking the drug to feeling any effect can vary significantly depending on the drug as well as the individual person. If it’s not working, don’t re-dose.
  • High-dose MDMA use has been linked to death and other serious harms.

Effects to look out for

  • Feeling really hot and sweaty
  • Racing pulse/heart or lightheaded
  • Rigid muscles (e.g. difficulty walking), uncontrolled repetitive movements, seizures
  • Confusion or agitation, feeling aggressive, difficult to rouse / unconscious
  • Vomiting

If you or others experience these symptoms after taking MDMA, get help immediately.

Source: https://www.health.nsw.gov.au/aod/public-drug-alerts/Pages/mdma-multiple-nov23.aspx 

Emergency: If you are experiencing an emergency, please call an ambulance on 000, or if you need to speak to someone urgently please call the National Alcohol and Other Drug Hotline on 1800 250 015

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