RNC reports its 1st confirmed seizure of carfentanil 100 times more potent than fentanyl

The Royal Newfoundland Constabulary is sounding the alarm after its first confirmed discovery of carfentanil in the province's illicit drug supply.

The synthetic opioid is used as a sedative for large animals, and is one of the most potent opioids in the world as much as 100 times stronger than fentanyl,according to the National Library of Medicine in the U.S.

"Carfentanil looks similar to table salt, and ingesting just one or two grains can be fatal to humans," reads a media release from Royal Newfoundland Constabulary Const. James Cadigan.

Cadigan said the substancewas present in drugs seized by its drug enforcement unit on the northeast Avalon, which was later confirmed by Health Canada.

The seizure also included methylfentanyl, another opioid more potent than fentanyl.

"It is believed both drugs were being sold as fentanyl," Cadigan said.

The RNC is urging drug users andtheir loved ones to keep naloxone kits nearby.It's alsoreminding people of the Good Samaritan Act, which protects anyone from possession charges if they call 911 when someone is experiencing an overdose.

Carfentanil was detected once before in the province, when the RCMPconfirmed its presence in a fatal drug overdose in Labrador. The drugs seized were bought online.

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