Beware of Deadly Fake Oxycodone Pills in New Zealand
A public safety alert has been issued in New Zealand following the death of a man in Napier last week. The incident involved fake oxycodone pills, which have been found to contain a highly potent synthetic opioid known as metonitazene. These pills have been offered for sale online and may be available throughout the country.
The alert, issued by High Alert Drug Information and Alerts Aotearoa New Zealand, warns that these tablets are being sold as ’40mg oxycodone pills’ but are actually ‘metonitazene based oxys.’ It is concerning that this crucial information may not be communicated to people who purchase these tablets from sources other than the original online provider.
To determine the contents of the fake pills, a sample was submitted to the Institute of Environmental Science and Research (ESR) for analysis. The results confirmed that the tablets contained metonitazene and did not contain any oxycodone. Metonitazene is a highly potent substance with effects similar to fentanyl, and it has been linked to drug-related deaths internationally.
One of the main concerns with these fake pills is the unpredictable dosages they contain. Illicitly pressed opioid pills often lack quality control, resulting in tablets with varying doses, even within the same batch. This significantly increases the risk of unintentional overdosing and poses a serious threat to public health.
It is important for individuals to be aware that metonitazene and other nitazene compounds can be found in various forms, including powders, gel caps, and liquids. These substances cannot be detected using fentanyl test strips, which are commonly used to identify the presence of opioids.
The lethal dose of metonitazene is equivalent in size to just a few grains of salt, making accurate dosing impossible. The pharmacological data suggests that metonitazene exhibits potency similar to fentanyl, further underlining the dangers associated with these fake oxycodone pills.
The alert advises anyone who has heard of any reports related to these fake pills to inform the agency, with all submissions being anonymous. Additionally, it is crucial to highlight the significance of taking precautionary measures and avoiding the purchase or consumption of any medications from unreliable sources.
The coroner is currently investigating the death of the man in Napier, highlighting the seriousness of this issue. Law enforcement agencies and health authorities are working diligently to address this public health concern and prevent further harm.
In conclusion, the discovery of deadly fake oxycodone pills in New Zealand has raised serious concerns about public safety. These pills contain metonitazene, a highly potent synthetic opioid, and have been linked to deaths and hospitalizations. It is crucial for individuals to be aware of the dangers associated with purchasing medications from uncertain sources and to report any related information to the appropriate authorities. Law enforcement agencies, health authorities, and the public must remain vigilant to prevent further harm caused by these counterfeit drugs.
