Fentanyl and Oxycodone Warning: New Synthetic Opioid Threat in Canberra

Fentanyl and Oxycodone Warning: New Synthetic Opioid Threat in Canberra

Canberra's pill-testing service has issued a red alert regarding a powerful and potentially lethal form of synthetic opioid, identified as N-pyrrolidino isotonitazene, masquerading as oxycodone. Clinical lead David Caldicott confirmed that this variant had not been previously detected in the ACT. The sample was analyzed extensively, leading to CanTEST’s urgent warning issued on Monday.

Understanding the Risks of This New Synthetic Opioid

• This opioid is exceptionally potent, being 1000 times stronger than morphine and 100 times stronger than fentanyl.
• Acquired from the dark web, this sample represents the third nitazene-related notice due to increasing overdose concerns.
• All forms of nitazenes, including this variant, carry risks of fatal overdose, manifesting through symptoms like lowered consciousness and slowed breathing.

Community Impact and Rising Concerns

ACT Chief Police Officer Scott Lee has voiced concern over 15 overdose deaths recorded this year in the ACT, significantly higher than previous years. Although investigations are ongoing, there is a noted increase in the prevalence of synthetic opioids like fentanyl and nitazene in the community.

1. Police, along with federal authorities, issued warnings earlier this year about projected increases in nitazene on Australian streets.
2. Recent deaths, including one in Canberra's jail, are under investigation, emphasizing the urgent need for community awareness and prevention strategies.

Caldicott pointed out the drug’s deceptive nature, stating, “This particular product was masquerading as oxycodone, a therapeutic drug well-regarded in the community.” Naloxone offers some protection against nitazene overdoses, but multiple doses might be necessary.