Alberta RCMP have issued a province‑wide warning after a 16‑year‑old youth died from consuming a replica pill resembling Xanax, which was found to contain lethal quantities of the powerful opioid isotonitazene.RCMP Public Information Officer Cpl. Troy Savinkoff confirmed that the pill, which tested positive for isotonitazene, was disguised to look like prescription Xanax, a medication commonly used for anxiety that does not contain opioids. “We are investigating the death of a 16‑year‑old youth where there is a nexus to isotonitazene. Parents, relatives, and other community members need to share this information as much as possible, and especially so now that school is out,” said Savinkoff..He emphasized the extreme danger posed by these counterfeit pills.“Yes, the drugs are illegal, but more important is that the public knows the extreme danger that this dangerous replica can pose. We are working to interdict the supply and notify the public. Please look at the photos, share them with your kids, friends, and relatives, and let them know that these pills could kill them.”The pills are described as grey, rectangular in shape, imprinted with “ONAX” on one side and the number “2” vertically on the other.Authorities urge Albertans to only obtain prescriptions from licensed pharmacies. Anyone with information about these replica pills is asked to contact their local police or call 310‑RCMP.
