Taranaki Police have issued a warning over the class B controlled drug GHB, GBL or 1,4-BD following a number of overdose hospitalisations.
Police say they are aware of a "number of people overdosing" on what they believe is the drug, commonly referred to as 'Wazz'.
A spokesperson said the overdoses have resulted in admission to Taranaki Base Hospital, putting "undue" pressure on the public health system.
Advice from Taranaki health officials is that anyone who has taken the drug and notices symptoms such as loss of consciousness, seizures, increased heart rate, high blood pressure or strange-feeling muscles should present at the hospital emergency department.
Aotearoa's drug early warning system High Alert said while "no use is the safest drug use", there are steps that can help reduce risks from taking 'Wazz'-type drugs.
"These substances all have different potency and onset times which makes it very easy to overdose. Smaller doses pose less risk. Avoid re-dosing, and steer clear of mixing GBL with other substances, especially alcohol and other depressants like ketamine," the police spokesperson said.
Police say people can report drug offending by calling 105.
"Possession of class B controlled drugs is an offence," they warned.
