Nova Scotia RCMP is warning of a new drug found during a seizure.
On November 26, 2020, Cumberland District SCEU seized drugs from a motor vehicle entering Nova Scotia from New Brunswick. Among the drugs seized was a small quantity of white pills and purple powder in a plastic bag. The white pills are described as white triangular shaped tablets with a line down the middle. The letter ''M'' is on one side and the number "8" is on the other side. Both the power and the pills were sent to Health Canada for analysis.
The results have come back advising that Isotonitazene, a controlled substance, was found in both the pills and the purple powder. Health Canada also advised that Isotonitazene is an opioid with similar effects to fentanyl. Like fentanyl, it can slowly be absorbed through the skin, so it is potentially dangerous to handle without taking appropriate health and safety precautions. Given the current limited state of knowledge regarding Isotonitazene, caution is recommended.
RCMP always warn against illicit drug use, however, with the presence of this new substance in drugs seized in a Nova Scotia, the danger of illicit drug use has increased.
Free Naloxone kits are available throughout the province for anyone at risk of overdose, as well as friends and family of someone at risk of overdose. These kits can temporarily reverse the effects of an opioid overdose. Find a pharmacy that distributes Naloxone near you at http://www.nsnaloxone.com/where-to-get-one.html.
If you or someone you know may struggle with addiction, visit Nova Scotia Health for information on support, programs and services across the province.
File # 20201730627