(St. John’s, NL) March 26, 2025 — The Royal Newfoundland Constabulary (RNC) is warning the public of the presence of a synthetic opioid, Protonitazine, which is being distributed on the illicit market.

Through a toxicology report connected to a recent sudden death on the Northeast Avalon, the RNC has confirmed the presence of the synthetic opioid that is three times more potent than fentanyl, which is known to have fatal effects in minute doses.

This investigation has determined that Protonitazine was obtained on the illicit market, sold as Dilaudid. The pill form of Protonitazine appears almost identical to a Dilaudid pill.

The RNC is advising drug users to use extreme caution when using illicit drugs given there are no controls in place to confirm the validity of the content of  the substances. If you or someone you know is using illicit drugs, please ensure there is a naloxone kit close by. Free naloxone kits are distributed by the Department of Health and Community Services. A list of distribution sites is available online at gov.nl.ca/hcs/naloxonekits.

If you or someone you know is experiencing the symptoms of a drug overdose call 911 immediately. The Good Samaritan Act protects those experiencing a drug overdose or anyone present during an overdose from charges of possession when they call for emergency help.

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 Cst. James Cadigan, #775
Public Communications Officer
Royal Newfoundland Constabulary
media@rnc.gov.nl.ca