More toxic than fentanyl: Northern Health issues drug alert

Northern Health has issued a drug advisory following the discovery that a round white pill being sold as “Oxycocet” has tested positive for isotonitazene, a potent synthetic opioid. 

The advisory, issued Thursday, March 27, warns that isotonitazene, also known as "Nitazene," is as dangerous or even more toxic than fentanyl, and it is not detectable using fentanyl test strips.

For public safety, health officials are urging the following precautions:

• Naloxone can reverse isotonitazene overdose: Ensure you are trained to recognize and respond to overdoses and always carry naloxone
• Don’t use drugs alone: Share your plan with a trusted person who can call for help if needed
• Use apps for safety: If using alone, utilize the Lifeguard or BeSafe apps, available for free, or call the National Overdose Response Service (NORS) at 1-888-688-6677 for support
• Know your limits: If you are feeling unwell or have had a period of abstinence or reduced use, use significantly smaller amounts
• Avoid mixing substances: Combining drugs or using alcohol with drugs increases overdose risk
• Test your drugs: Always start with a small amount and go slow
• Use overdose prevention sites (OPS): If possible, use substances in a supervised environment where help is available

Local overdose prevention sites (OPS) provide essential services, and residents are encouraged to visit the Northern Health OPS website for more information on site hours.

This advisory is set to expire on April 10.