A dangerous batch of counterfeit oxycodone pills is circulating in the Netherlands, containing the possibly life-threatening substance isotonitazepyne instead of oxycodone.
Authorities have linked these killer counterfeits to at least one confirmed fatality.
Police discovered the body of a 30-year-old Amsterdammer on March 14 and several of the pills were also found at the scene, prompting an investigation.
Warning from authorities
The Trimbos Institute, a leading Dutch organisation researching drug use, issued a rare Red Alert on Tuesday to warn the public about the deadly pills. 👇
These concerns were echoed by the Health and Youth Care Inspectorate (IGJ), after a series of emergency hospitalisations.
The pills in question are primarily sold online without prescriptions and were initially believed to contain 80mg of oxycodone. However, new research indicates that they actually contain isotonitazepyne — a synthetic opioid far stronger than fentanyl, oxycodone, or morphine.
Extreme potency and overdose risk
Due to the compound’s strength, the IGJ warns that the risk of overdosing is high and potentially life-threatening.
The Trimbos Institute also adds that even a relatively small amount, such as a few milligrams, can cause respiratory issues.
“This shows how dangerous it is to order prescription drugs online,” stresses Henk de Groot, chief inspector for the IGJ. “It may look real, but you have absolutely no idea what you are buying. That is extremely dangerous. For drugs, go to your doctor and pharmacy.”
Anyone experiencing overdose symptoms after taking oxycodone should seek immediate medical help.
Call 112, the national emergency number, and mention that synthetic opioids may be involved. Request naloxone, a medication that can counteract opioid overdoses.
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