Nitazene, a substance stronger than Fentanyl is surfacing in the unregulated drug supply in BC
Northern Health Region released a toxic drug advisory on March 27 to alert people who use substances about the danger of a white pill being sold on the unregulated market known as Oxycocet that has tested positive for a dangerous substance.
The substance nitazene is a synthetic opioid that is equal to, or more toxic than, fentanyl that cannot be detected on fentanyl test strips. This represents an increased risk of toxic drug poisonings.
Symptoms of a nitazene overdose are similar to other opioid overdose symptoms:
- Breathing that has slowed, is halting, or has stopped
- Non-responsiveness
- Loss of consciousness
- Pinpoint pupils
- Blue or grey skin, lips, and / or fingernails
Despite not being detected by fentanyl test strips, nitazene will respond to naloxone. If you or someone you know uses substances, please carry naloxone and get training on how to use it. Naloxone is available at pharmacies in BC at no cost to First Nations people through First Nations Health Benefits.
Naloxone is a medicine that rapidly reverses an opioid poisoning. When administered in a timely manner, Naloxone can restore normal breathing to a person experiencing a toxic drug poisoning.
In the case of a suspected overdose, following the SAVE ME steps and administering Naloxone are recommended.
Nitazene is only one of several substances that have been detected in the increasingly toxic and dangerous unregulated drug supply in BC. It is helpful to test your substances whenever possible. Here are some other tips for your safety:
- When possible, don't use alone and use with someone you trust. If alone, use apps like Lifeguard or BeSafe; make a plan and tell someone you trust who can support if needed
- Start low and go slow and if using with a friend, try to alternate use to support one another
- Use in an Overdose Prevention Site if possible
- When possible, avoid mixing drugs or mixing drugs with alcohol
- Carry Naloxone and know how to use it
- Take into account a potential decrease in tolerance and isolation, especially if you haven't used substances for a period of time due to cold weather
- Call 9-1-1 or your local emergency number right away if someone overdoses
For more information about harm reduction please visit our web section or visit towardtheheart.com.
