One dead in Netherlands after taking fake Oxycodone laced with deadly opioid
A person in the Netherlands has died after taking counterfeit oxycodone pills containing isotonitazepyne, a powerful synthetic opioid far more potent than fentanyl, authorities warn. The drug may be circulating in Dutch markets, posing a serious public health risk, according to Trimbos Institute.
The victim had purchased the pills online as pain medication without a prescription. Testing by the Netherlands Forensic Institute confirmed the pills contained no oxycodone but instead the deadly nitazene-class opioid.
Health experts say nitazenes dramatically increase the risk of fatal overdose, even in small doses. "These substances can cause severe respiratory failure, leading to death," officials warn.
Authorities urge people to avoid online pain medication and seek immediate medical help if someone becomes unwell after taking suspected oxycodone. In an overdose situation, responders should request naloxone, a life-saving antidote.
The Drugs Information and Monitoring System (DIMS) is tracking the spread of these pills. For concerns about drug safety, users can get substances tested at designated facilities.
