SE OPP – Non-fentanyl synthetic opioid (NSO) Found in Seized Drugs

The Superior East Detachment of the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) would like to warn the public about the dangers of illicit drug use. This warning is due to the detection of a non-fentanyl synthetic opioid (NSO) in a pill that was seized from a crime scene in the autumn of 2021.

The pills in question appeared to be legitimate Percocet pills with “TEC” pressed into one side and a solid line across the middle of the opposing side. The results of a Health Canada laboratory analysis revealed that the pills were composed of isotonitazene, benzodiazepine and caffeine.

Isotonitazene and other NSOs have been slowly making their way into street drugs for a couple of years now. While some of these NSOs are similar in strength to fentanyl, others (like isotonitazene) are said to be 5-10 times stronger. This can lead to overdose in both new and experienced opioid users. Naloxone is said to be effective in reversing overdoses involving NSOs, but multiple doses may be required to overcome the effects.

It is well known that potent opiates have been found mixed in with many other kinds of street drugs and NSOs are no different. When you buy drugs on the street, there is no way to know what you are getting and the consequences could be lethal. If you buy and consume ANY type of illicit drug, you are putting yourself and potentially others at extreme risk!

Anyone who encounters a person who appears to be in a state of overdose should immediately call 911. Take-home Naloxone kits and training are available free of charge and without a prescription. Naloxone can be obtained from your local Health Unit locations as well as participating pharmacies.

For more information on NSOs, please read the report found at: https://www.publichealthontario.ca/en/Search#q=non-fentanyl&sort=relevancy