Methadone bag lost in Lower Hutt

Police are warning people not to be tempted to dip into a small bag containing methadone that was lost in Lower Hutt this morning.

The green and white pharmacy bag containing two small green bottles of clear liquid methadone was dropped in Hillary Court in Naenae between 9am and 10am.

Sergeant Alan Cappleman said despite a thorough search police had not found the medicine.

"We believe that the bag and contents may have been picked up by somebody. The bottles are clearly labelled as to [their] contents and the fact that it is prescription-only medicine."

He said it could possibly be fatal if consumed.

Methadone is a prescription medicine used for pain relief and in addiction treatment programmes.

"We're urging anyone who may have picked up this medicine to contact us immediately or return it to any police station or pharmacy as soon as possible."

Anyone with information is asked to call Lower Hutt Police on 04 560 2669 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

- © Fairfax NZ News