Local police are warning of an opioid found in seized drugs.
Superior East Ontario Provincial Police say a "non-fentanyl synthetic opioid" was detected in a pill seized from a crime scene last fall - though it appeared to be a legitimate Percocet pill with "TEC" pressed into one side and a solid line across the middle of the opposing side, a Health Canada laboratory analysis found it was instead composed of caffeine, benzodiasepine, and isotonitazene, which is said to be five to ten times stronger than fentanyl, and could lead to overdose for new or even experienced opioid users, potentially requiring multiple doses of naloxone to overcome its effects.
OPP emphasize that potent opiates have been found mixed in with many other kinds of street drugs, warning there is no way to know what you're getting and the consequences could be lethal, and noting take-home naloxone kits and training are available free of charge and without a prescription, while anyone who sees an apparent overdose should call 9-1-1 immediately.