Cpl Jolene Garland says an analysis confirmed it was the extremely potent synthetic opioid, categorized as a Nitazine, and is approximately 20 times more potent than Fentanyl.
RCMP issued a warning this week after tablets containing nitazine (night-aww-zeeen) were found in St.Anthony. Police seized the pills in late December following an overdose death in the town. Cpl Jolene Garland says an analysis confirmed it was the extremely potent synthetic opioid, categorized as a Nitazine, and is approximately 20 times more potent than Fentanyl. She says synthetic opioids cause heavy sedation and severely depress the respiratory system, leading to death. Garland says the deceased is believed to have purchased the substance online, advertised as morphine. She says illicit drug manufacturers will often produce the most cost-effective substance and market it as something else, without the consideration of its effects on the user. The investigation into the origin of the substance is continuing.
Please call 811 to find your nearest location for a free naloxone kit or visit https://www.gov.nl.ca/hcs/naloxonekits/.
41-year-old Matthew Delaney charged with two counts of murder in St. John's
UPDATE: Team on site to bring back cell service after damage to a Bell Aliant tower in the La Scie area
Mill City Mavericks, Broadway Blues Band and Tammy Dutcher perform in Stephenville tomorrow night
60th annual Lions Club Santa Claus Parade is tomorrow "60 Seasons of Christmas Magic!"
Blow Me Down Ski Trails to open tomorrow, a month earlier than last year
