Warning Issued: Schools Alert Parents About Dangerous Drugs

In a shocking wave of concern, schools across Newfoundland and Labrador are sounding the alarm over a dangerous resurgence of counterfeit drugs flooding the market. Parents and caregivers have been issued urgent warnings about deadly pills masquerading as legitimate pharmaceuticals.

Teens at Risk: The Alarming Rise of Overdoses

In collaboration with law enforcement, including the Royal Newfoundland Constabulary (RNC) and the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP), schools are highlighting the troubling increase in overdoses linked to these counterfeit substances—particularly among teens and young adults.

What’s Hidden in Your Meds? The Dark Truth About Counterfeit Pills

Horrifyingly, counterfeit pills marketed as Xanax have been discovered to contain dangerous substances such as Bromazolam, methamphetamine, and MDMA. Bromazolam, a potent and unregulated benzodiazepine, poses grave risks as it is not approved for medical use.

The Overdose Dangers: A Lethal Combination

Mixing Bromazolam with opioids like fentanyl significantly heightens the overdose risk. In horrifying instances, counterfeit Dilaudid has been found to hide Protonitazine, an opioid that is over 20 times more potent than fentanyl, presenting a perilous threat even to seasoned users.

Stay Informed: The Risks of Central Nervous System Depressants

The Newfoundland and Labrador Centre on Substance Use warns that Bromazolam can severely depress the central nervous system, slowing both breathing and heart rate. The combination with opioids can lead to respiratory failure, and alarmingly, Naloxone—a common opioid overdose treatment—cannot reverse Bromazolam's effects. Nonetheless, keeping Naloxone accessible is highly recommended for anyone consuming opioids or other illicit substances.

A Call to Action: Educating the Community

As the situation escalates, it's imperative for communities, educators, and parents to come together and educate young people about the dangers of counterfeit drugs. Awareness is the first step in preventing further tragedies.