Drug Monitoring

The HSE are operating Irelands first 'back of house' drug monitoring programme at Electric Picnic 2022 as part of our 'Safer Nightlife Programme'

See below for our updates throughout the weekend.

Friday 2nd September 2022

On Friday 2nd September 2022, after testing in our onsite lab, we issued a caution relating to a purple skull shaped pill branded 'Mybrand'. The caution was issued due to concern for the strength of the product. The pill was found to contain approximately two times the average adult dose. What this means is that it may be easy to take too much of this substance which could lead to a drug related emergency/overdose.

It’s safer not to use at all, if you do, get information to help you reduce the harms here.

Saturday 3rd September

On Saturday 3rd September, after testing in our onsite lab, we issued an update on powders and crystals identified onsite. High strength powders are also a cause for concern.

What this means is that it may be easy to take too much of this substance which could lead to a drug related emergency/overdose.

It’s safer not to use at all, if you do, get information to help you reduce the harms here

Sunday 4th September

We have identified 3-CMC a ‘synthetic cathinone’ substance as large white crystals in our lab onsite at Electric Picnic.

What is 3-CMC?

3-CMC is a potent stimulant-type drug.

We are aware of similar ‘cathinone’ type substances being found in the UK this summer sold as MDMA pills, powders and crystals.

You can never be fully sure of the contents of pills, powders or crystals.

What are the effects?

These substances can produce strong stimulant effects which can make people feel unwell. They can lead to prolonged stimulation, insomnia, anxiety, paranoia, suicidal feelings, psychosis with negative come downs and after effects. They can also cause cravings which could lead to overconsumption/overdose.

It’s safer not to use at all, if you do, get information to help you reduce the harms on our site here.

Don’t be afraid to get medical help if you or a friend feels unwell or suicidal after using drugs.

More information about cathinone type drugs

Get information and support

See our information on drug emergencies here
See our information for people who use drugs at festivals here
Get harm reduction here
Chat with the HSE Harm Reduction teams onsite in the main arena and on outreach
Don't be afraid to get medical support if you or a friend are unwell or feel suicidal after using drugs - medics are your mates