Drug warning following two overdoses

Published: Tuesday 3 June 2025

Updated: Tuesday 3 June 2025

Green pills containing synthetic opioids (Nitazenes) are circulating in London and have resulted in the death of two people in Ealing. Similar pills, marked as oxycodone, are also linked to deaths in the Thames Valley and Kent.

The symptoms include feeling dizzy and tired. People are being advised not to take these pills, even in smaller amounts, as they may contain lethal doses of synthetic opioid, there are also fears that other illegal pills have been adulterated with more harmful drugs.

So far, no residents of Kensington and Chelsea have been affected by these drugs, please act now to make sure you are prepared.

Local drug treatment services can provide support:

  • Turning Point operate the Drug and Alcohol Wellbeing Service at Acorn Hall, 1 East Row, W10 5AW. You can also call them on 0330 303 8080 or visit the website.
  • Insight Kensington and Chelsea offers free, friendly and confidential support for people living with or affected by drug or alcohol issues aged up to 25 in Kensington and Chelsea. 

Anna Raleigh, Director of Public Health, said: “The best advice for everyone is to avoid these dangerous pills even in small amounts, and to consider the potential harm of taking any pills. If you or anyone you know feel ill after taking drugs go to A&E or call 999.”