Warning issued over high strength MDMA 'causing medical emergencies’ at Electric Picnic

There are a number of drug surrender bins in place at the festival site in Stradbally where people can deposit drugs anonymously

The HSE has warned people attending Electric Picnic that high strength MDMA is in circulation at the event after a number of medical emergencies were reported.

The drug warning was issued on Friday evening, the first night of the festival, following on-site testing of various substances which were deposited in the drug surrender bins.

The HSE said that while it is safer not to use drugs at all, it advised festival goers to treat all pills, powders and crystals with caution.

“MDMA is causing medical emergencies, including fits,” it said in its message.

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

High strength MDMA pills are in circulation at @EPfestival . These are causing medical emergencies, including fits. It’s safer not to use drugs at all but if you do #StartlowGoslow mind yourself and care for others. #ReduceTheHarmshttps://t.co/233FOhoCdT pic.twitter.com/vsJ6bmRj0m

— HSE Drugs.ie (@drugsdotie) August 16, 2024

There are a number of drug surrender bins in place at the festival site in Stradbally where people can deposit drugs anonymously. The bins are not monitored by gardaí.

The materials are then tested on site and can prompt public health warnings, like the one issued this evening.

Last year, the drug surrender bins led to the discovery of three new substances the music festival, including high-strength MDMA in the form of purple, pink, blue and yellow punisher pills, and 3-CMC, a clophedrone drug, which appeared similar to MDMA.