Opioid found in counterfeit pill seized in N.S. more potent than deadly fentanyl

Nova Scotia Health has issued a public alert about a potent new drug never before seen in the province's illegal drug supply.

The white pills, seized in Bridgetown, N.S., contain protonitazene, a synthetic opioid that is up to 20 times stronger than fentanyl, said Rebecca Penn, a harm reduction consultant for the health authority.

They also contain butonitazene, a synthetic opioid more powerful than morphine, and a benzodiazepine. Opioids and benzodiazepines work to slow down breathing and heart rate, which can lead to a fatal overdose. 

"The combination of these [synthetic opioids] plus the benzodiazepine makes it extremely risky, particularly if people have no idea that that's what they're taking," said Penn.  

According to the alert, police seized the drug in January and it was tested at the national drug analysis service laboratory.

The tablets are triangular shaped with rounded corners, "D/D" on one side and "8" on the other.

The alert, which was posted online, described the drugs as "extremely powerful," adding that "even a small amount can be fatal."

"What's concerning about this particular sample that was analyzed is it looked like another pharmaceutical opioid that's commonly prescribed," Penn said. 

While naloxone does not reverse benzodiazepine toxicity, Penn said naloxone should still be administered if someone appears to be overdosing and opioids may be involved.

"It's just really important to always call 911 because we don't know if there's also other drugs that are on board that the naloxone won't help," she said. 

Penn advised anyone taking a substance or pill that isn't prescribed to them to "let someone know, start low, and go slow."