One dead after five suspected fantasy overdoses in Wellington

<p>One person has died, and three others remain in hospital after five suspected fantasy overdoses across Wellington yesterday. </p> <p>It's prompted police to warn the public not to consume the substance.</p> <p>The incidents occurred across the district, spanning Miramar, Brooklyn, Johnsonville and Upper Hutt. A fifth person was treated and discharged from medical care. </p> <p>Inspector Wade Jennings said an investigation was underway and police were treating the matter as a "priority", given the risk to the public.</p> <p>"Individuals are believed to have overdosed on a substance that is thought to be GHB, commonly known as fantasy or liquid ecstasy," he said.</p> <p>"Police are urging the public to exercise caution, and anyone who may have this type of substance are urged not to consume it."</p> <p>GHB — commonly known as fantasy or liquid ecstasy — is a central nervous system depressant that produces euphoric, relaxing effects, usually within 15 to 20 minutes. It presents as a clear, oily liquid and is typically mixed with water or soft drinks.</p> <p>It is particularly dangerous because the difference between the desired effect and a fatal overdose can be a matter of millilitres, and potency can vary significantly between batches. </p> <p>The risk increases when users re-dose too soon or mix the substance with alcohol or other depressants. </p> <p>Drug harm reduction service High Alert said it had been tracking an increasing trend of GHB overdoses across New Zealand, with a particular concentration of emergency department presentations in the Wellington region.</p> <p>Anyone feeling unwell after taking a substance is urged to go to their nearest healthcare provider urgently.</p>