KELOWNA – The RCMP are warning the public of a potentially deadly drug that has recently begun to show up in the Kelowna area.
A Health Canada analysis of Counterfeit Oxycodone and Percocet tablets, that were seized from a recent drug bust in West Kelowna, revealed the presence of a synthetic Opioid called “W18” that is nearly 100 times more potent than Fentanyl. Use of this toxic drug, even in very small amounts, can result in a fatal overdose.
Police are significantly concerned that an overdose death will occur if great caution is not exercised by persons using Opiate drugs like Morphine, Heroin and Oxycodone.
“Of particular concern is a green coloured Oxycodone tablet marked CDN80”, says Cpl. Eric Boechler, RCMP drug expert . “It was discontinued, as a prescription tablet, in 2012 so virtually any encountered on the street today are counterfeit and will contain Fentanyl and/or other potent synthetic opioids such as W18.”
“People need to know that this drug is deadly, it’s a ticking time bomb,” says Cpl. Boechler, adding that because of it’s potency and the manner in which it is produced, the risk of overdose and death is considerable. “It’s simply not worth taking the chance.”