Opioid stronger than fentanyl found in Halifax for the first time

HALIFAX, N.S. — Halifax Regional Police are warning the public about a highly potent opioid found in the city for the first time.

A benzimidazole, or n-desethyl Isotonitazene, is a synthetic opioid similar to but stronger than fentanyl. The white, triangle-shaped pills were scored with “DD” on one side and “8” on the other, which police say “may lead people to believe they are consuming a different drug.”

The pills were obtained during an impaired driving traffic stop and sent for testing with Health Canada, which confirmed their chemistry.

Fentanyl on its own is so potent that it takes as little as two milligrams, roughly equal to two grains of salt, to cause death in an adult. As well, the drug takes several doses of naloxone to counter its overdose effect.

The public is urged to call 911 immediately if someone is showing signs of an opioid overdose, including:

• Unconsciousness or severe sleepiness that the person cannot be woken up;
• Absent of or slow in breathing;
• Snoring or gurgling noises;
• Cold, clammy skin;
• Lips and fingers are blue or grey;
• Pupils are tiny.

Those who consume the drug are asked to seek medical assistance immediately.

The public can get free naloxone kits through the Nova Scotia Take Home Naloxone program. More information on where to get a kit is available online.