The Alberta RCMP is advising the public of replica pills that resulted in the accidental death of a 16-year-old. (Photo: Alberta RCMP)

By David Opinko

Alberta-wide alert after opioids found in replica Xanax that killed teen

Jul 18, 2025 | 1:33 PM

The RCMP is urging the public to watch out for a deadly supply of illegal opiates that closely resemble Xanax.

Xanax is a prescription drug that is commonly used to treat anxiety and is opiate-free.

Public Information Officer Cpl. Troy Savinkoff says the RCMP is investigating the death of a 16-year-old related to the accidental ingestion of isotonitazene.

“Parents, relatives, and other community members need to share this information as much as possible, and especially so now that school is out,” says Savinkoff.

The U.S.-based Drug Enforcement Administration says that isotonitazene is a potent synthetic opioid that has a high potential for addiction and has resulted in numerous deaths. They say Nalaxone has been proven to block the drug’s activation, suggesting it works similarly to substances like fentanyl.

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The pills containing the opiate are described as grey in appearance, rectangular shaped, have the letters “ONAX” imprinted on one side, and have the number “2” printed vertically on the other side.

“Yes, the drugs are illegal, but more important is that the public knows the extreme danger that this dangerous replica can pose. We are working to interdict the supply and notify the public,” says Savinkoff. “Please look at the photos, share them with your kids, friends, and relatives, and let them know that these pills could kill them”.

He adds that medications should only be purchased from a reputable licensed pharmacist.

Anyone who has information about replica prescriptions is asked to call their local police or the RCMP at 310-RCMP.