Queensland pill testing detects dangerous synthetic drugs
CheQpoint, an Australian pill testing service, has identified multiple cases of dangerous synthetic opioids and novel benzodiazepines disguised as pharmaceutical medicines. Experts warn these findings may indicate a broader issue, as financial pressures drive more people to seek unregulated drugs online.
Since December, CheQpoint has detected bromazolam, a high-risk benzodiazepine, in five samples and nitazene, a deadly synthetic opioid linked to overdose deaths nationwide, in two cases.
The Queensland drug checking service operates as a 12-month government-funded pilot program, with an independent evaluation set to conclude in May. The Health Minister has stated that future funding decisions will depend on the evaluation’s findings.
A report has highlighted CheQpoint’s impact over the past year. The service has tested 800 drug samples from 490 individuals, revealing that one in ten contained unexpected psychoactive substances, including potent stimulants and ketamine variants. One in seven users chose to dispose of their drugs after consulting health professionals, while one in three sought further support through referrals to GPs or addiction services.
Cameron Francis, CEO of The Loop Australia, stressed the need for continued access to pill testing in Queensland. “Super potent synthetic opioids like nitazenes are emerging. If we can’t detect them early and warn the public, overdose rates could rise significantly,” he said.
Rebecca Lang, Qld Network of Alcohol and other Drugs (QNADA) CEO also warned that unregulated drug markets are becoming increasingly dangerous and services like CheQpoint are vital to reducing those risks.
AMA Queensland President Dr. Nick Yim echoed the call to keep the service running as “Pill testing provides a vital opportunity for health professionals to engage with people about drug use,” he said.
Category: Pharmaceuticals
