By Canadian Press

Opioid 25 times more powerful than fentanyl detected in Quebec City region

Feb 10, 2024 | 2:09 PM

MONTREAL — Public health officials in the Quebec City region say an opioid 25 times more powerful than fentanyl has begun circulating in local streets.

Officials say the substance, protonitazepyne, presents a high risk of overdose, which may require several doses of the life-saving medication naloxone.

Health Canada detected the substance 25 times across the country in 2023.

And officials say it has been increasingly found in the Montreal area since the beginning of this year.

The Quebec City regional public health authority says it identified protonitazepyne in pale green tablets that appear to resemble other prescription opioids. 

Meaningful Mementos

Remembering Someone You've Lost at Christmas

Dec 03, 2024

Seasonal Sorrow

How Do You Get Through The Holidays When You're Grieving?

Nov 01, 2024

Upcoming Events at Oliver's

Grief & Loss and Estate Planning Seminars

Oct 02, 2024

The authority warns protonitazepyne does not show up on test strips designed to detect fentanyl.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published Feb. 10, 2024. 

The Canadian Press