detected in NZ for first time
A dangerous opioid linked to drug-related deaths in North America has been detected in New Zealand for the first time.
The organisation High Alert said metonitazene has been found in a yellow powder, probably from crushed tablets and could be in circulation nationwide.
It says the drug acts quickly to produce a strong sedative and depressant effect.
The substance could be selling as isotonitazene, oxycodone or an unspecified opioid.
Sarah Helm from the Drug Foundation said it is causing concern.
"This is a particularly potent opioid, which is a type of metonitazene and it's reportedly been sold in the Wellington region.
Link to article: Deadly drug with 'potency greater than fentanyl' detected in NZ for first time | RNZ News
