The local authority is putting out warnings about a fantasy drug created from chemicals found in cleaning products. Its use is on the rise in Australia. While local use has not been determines, police are wary of its effects.

The chemical is known as 1,4-Butanediol (1,4-BD) – also called fantasy or bute and is often disguised as an industrial product and turns into Gamma-hydroxybutyrate (GHB) drug when consumed. The chemical solvent 1,4-Butanediol is found in industrial cleaning products, biodegradable plastics and even spandex 

Police Commissioner and Chairman of the Pacific Transnational Crimes Network (PTCN), Auapaau Logoitino Filipo, said they are working closely with regional enforcement partners to monitor and prevent the trafficking of the dangerous substance. 

While there are no reported cases of the illegal use of the substance, Auapaau said it is dangerous and can be used to spike drinks. 

“It comes in liquid form and is contained in cleaning products, so it gets extracted, and when mixed with other chemicals, it is very dangerous and fatal,” he added. 

“It can cause vomiting, blackouts, memory loss and hallucinations and even death if someone gets overdosed.”

The Commissioner said the alarm has been raised in Australia, and the local law enforcement is also on the alert to monitor any excessive importation of the product without any legitimate reason.  

He added that raising awareness in the community is key to ensure the public is vigilant of such drugs being used towards criminal activities. 

According to Australian Federal Police the drug is hitting Australian shores in a tidal wave of illegal importation with more than 3.8 tonnes of 1,4-BD already seized in 2025.

The AFP continues to be concerned with reports bute is one of the central drivers of fatal and non-fatal GHB overdoses in Australia and is being used to facilitate sexual assault through the spiking of food and drink. It is also used to facilitate offences including theft and rape, meaning it serves as both a serious health risk and a tool for criminal activity.