25B-NBOH is being sold in powder form as ‘LSD’ in Melbourne
25B-NBOH is a potent synthetic drug with psychedelic + stimulant properties
Not much is known about 25B-NBOH, but it’s closely related to the ‘novel phenethylamine’ 25B-NBOMe, and seems to have a high risk of very serious harm to health when consumed. This includes seizures, extreme agitation, acute kidney injury, hyperthermia (dangerously high body temperature) and death.
Reports from people who have used 25B-NBOH say it’s highly potent – this means it has a strong effect at very small doses. The effects for a given dose are reported to be unpredictable, but typically include heightened and distorted visuals, stimulant properties, and altered thought formation. Other effects may include nausea, headaches, difficulty with or frequent urination, muscle tension, cramps or involuntary movements, and a metallic/bitter taste and mouth numbing when taken orally or under the tongue.
There have been recent hospitalisations in Victoria after unintentional 25B-NBOH use (no other drugs were involved). ‘NBOH’ drugs are closely related to ‘NBOMe’ drugs, which have been associated with a substantial number of hospitalisations and deaths in Victoria and worldwide.
Be very cautious about any powder sold as ‘LSD’, ‘acid’, or a ‘psychedelic’ – it may be 25B-NBOH
It’s unusual, but not unheard of, for LSD (‘acid’) to be sold in a powdered form. While all drug use comes with risks, 25B-NBOH is much more toxic than LSD and it’s very hard to dose without adverse effects, especially if consumed unknowingly. NBOH/NBOMe drugs may also circulate as blotter paper ('tabs') or liquid.
Harm is more likely if 25B-NBOH is snorted, injected, or used sublingually (under the tongue). Consuming 25B-NBOH with other substances – especially stimulants like MDMA (‘ecstasy’) – will further increase the risk of unwanted and potentially fatal effects.
Reducing the risk of harm
If you experience adverse drug effects, or are present when someone has an unexpected reaction, seek help immediately by calling Triple Zero (000).
All alcohol and other drug use comes with risks, so:
- Be aware that other false or contaminated drug products may circulate in Victoria, even if no specific warning has been issued about them.
- Start low and go slow with how much you consume. If you have any unexpected or delayed reaction to a drug, do not take more.
- Make sure you’re in a safe environment with people you trust.
- Remember, even 'pure' drugs can produce serious side effects and death, and can interact dangerously with medications/pharmaceutical drugs – get the facts at the Alcohol and Drug Foundation's Drug Facts .
Contact Harm Reduction Victoria’s DanceWize team for anonymous support and education from peers. Talk to DanceWize volunteers online at their Facebook or , by email at info@dancewize.org.au or at music festivals across Victoria,
If you or someone you know needs help with alcohol or drug use, call DirectLine on 1800 888 236 or visit theDirectline for information and support to access treatment.
Reviewed 07 September 2022