Urgent NSW Health warning over high-dose MDMA tablets found at Sydney music festival

An urgent warning has been issued to NSW residents after an unusually large number of high-dose MDMA (ecstasy) tablets were found circulating the state.

The tablets were most recently detected at the Knockout Outdoor music festival in Sydney on Saturday, NSW Health said.

Authorities had previously warned about the tablets, but their continued detection has raised fresh concerns ahead of the summer festival season.

NSW Health Chief Addiction Medicine Specialist Dr Hester Wilson warned the tablets could be circulating anywhere in the state, with potentially deadly consequences.

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

“The risk of serious harm is increased when MDMA is taken with other stimulants including synthetic cathinones, amphetamines and if high amounts (including multiple doses) are consumed over a short period.

“The amount of MDMA in a tablet or capsule can vary significantly, even within the same batch.”

Wilson warned that hot environments, including music festivals, could further increase the risk of serious harm.

NSW Health urged festivalgoers and other members of the public to seek immediate medical help if they or someone else experienced:

Wilson said that people should not hesitate to seek medical attention over fears of getting into trouble.

“It’s also 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,” Wilson said.

“If you or a friend feels unwell, please seek help immediately by calling triple-0.”