The RCMP issued a critical warning after a 16-year-old youth died after taking an illegal opioid disguised as Xanax.
The Alberta RCMP issued a critical warning Saturday about a deadly supply of illegal opiates that closely resemble the prescription medication Xanax.
Xanax is commonly used for anti-anxiety and is opiate-free.
“We are investigating the death of a 16-year-old youth where there is a nexus to isotonitazene,” said Cpl. Troy Savinkoff. “Parents, relatives, and other community members need to share this information as much as possible, and especially so now that school is out.”
The replica pills have tested positive for deadly quantities of the highly potent opioid known as isotonitazene.
“Yes, the drugs are illegal, but more important is that the public knows the extreme danger that this dangerous replica can pose,” Savinkoff said. “We are working to interdict the supply and notify the public.”
Savinkoff urged the public to share the information with their children, friends, and relatives.
“Let them know that these pills could kill them,” Savinkoff said.
The pills containing the opiate are described as:
- Grey in appearance.
- Rectangular shaped.
- Have the letters ONAX imprinted on one side.
- Have the number 2 printed vertically on the other side.
Prescriptions should only be purchased from a reputable licensed pharmacist.
If you have information about replica prescriptions, please contact your local police or call 310-RCMP.
