NSW Health is warning the public that there are multiple types of high-dose MDMA tablets (ecstasy) currently circulating in NSW.

These tablets contain up to twice the average amount of MDMA usually contained in tablets found across the state.

Medical Director of the NSW Poisons Information Centre, Dr Darren Roberts, said consuming high doses of MDMA has been linked to recent cases of serious illness and death in NSW.

MDMA (ecstasy) is often poorly manufactured and the amount of MDMA in a tablet or capsule can vary a lot. Other drugs including cathinones, ketamine and ketamine analogues have also recently been detected in some MDMA tablets and capsules.

Three types of high dose MDMA 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.

“MDMA can cause severe agitation, raised body temperature, seizures or fits, irregular heart rhythm and death,” Dr Roberts said.

“The amount of MDMA in a tablet or capsule can vary a lot, even within the same batch. The health risks from MDMA are greatly increased if high amounts (including multiple doses) are consumed over a short period.

“Other risks include taking MDMA in combination with other stimulants, such as amphetamines, cocaine or cathinones.

“Hot environments, such as at music festivals, increase the risk of harm from MDMA. Taking a break from dancing, seeking shade, and drinking water are important measures to reduce the risk of overheating.

“It is very important to remember, if you or a friend has taken drugs and feel unwell, you won't get into trouble for seeking medical care. If you or a friend feels unwell, please seek help immediately by calling Triple Zero (000)."

NSW Health reminds us that 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.

Effects to look out for

• Feeling really hot and sweaty
• Racing pulse/heart or light headed
• 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.

For information about the potential adverse effects of MDMA, please contact the NSW Poisons Information Centre on 13 11 26.

For support and information with alcohol, MDMA and other drugs, please contact the Alcohol and Drug Information Service on 1800 250 015. This is a 24/7 service offering confidential and anonymous telephone counselling and information.

NUAA also provides a range of harm minimisation resources and advice and can be reached on 1800 644 413.