![NSW Health is warning the public of a drug suspected to be cocaine which has caused heroin overdose. Picture file NSW Health is warning the public of a drug suspected to be cocaine which has caused heroin overdose. Picture file](/images/transform/v1/crop/frm/silverstone-feed-data/598cf32e-631c-44d1-80a5-63327092390c.jpg/r0_91_800_541_w1200_h678_fmax.jpg)
One person has died and two others hospitalised from heroin overdoses after taking what they thought was cocaine.
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The three people aged in their 30s were hospitalised in the week before November 15, after taking a drug suspected to be cocaine this circulating around Sydney.
"We've seen heroin overdose among people using what they thought was cocaine," NSW Poisons Information Centre medical director Dr Darren Roberts said.
"A heroin overdose could quickly result from snorting a single line.
"It's important that people recognise the signs of an opioid overdose early and know how to respond."
Opioids such as heroin can cause pin-point pupils, drowsiness, loss of consciousness, slowed breathing or snoring and skin turning blue/grey, and can be life threatening.
Dr Roberts said a danger of illicit drug supply was the unknown and possibly inconsistent strength and contents of the substance people were using.
"In light of this detection, people who use cocaine should also consider carrying naloxone."
Naloxone, which reverses the effect of opioids, is free and doesn't require a prescription for people at risk of opioid overdose in NSW.
IN OTHER NEWS:
Anyone who has taken a stimulant drug, such as cocaine, and is experiencing unexpected symptoms, such as drowsiness, is advised to call 000 immediately or seek urgent medical attention.
Naloxone should be given immediately if available.