01 Apr 2026
Kent County Council have identified a heroin supply found to be containing etonitazene as a significant factor in one death and over ten overdose incidents in Canterbury between 11 and 12 March 2026.
Etonitazene is a Nitazene, a synthetic opioid which is of similar or higher toxicity to Fentanyl and may pose a high risk to users and anyone handling it. Other common Nitazenes include Isotonitazene, Metonitazene, and Protonitazene.
Nitazenes come in white or brown/yellow powder. They can also take the shape of crystalline solids or tablets that resemble oxycodone. Worryingly, they have also been found mixed with synthetic cannabinoids in herbal smoking mixtures, as well as in heroin and ketamine.
How long the effects of Nitazenes last and how long the drug stays in your system depend on how much you’ve taken, your size, whether you’ve eaten and what other drugs you‘ve taken. The high potency of Nitazines means this drug remains a high risk of accidental overdose and death.
Some of the main effects of Nitazines include:
Tiredness or insomnia.
Confusion.
Restlessness.
Irritability.
Anxiety.
Constipation or diarrhoea.
Itching or rashes.
Nausea and vomiting.
Unconsciousness and coma.
Suppressed breathing.
Dizziness and fainting.
Stomach pain.
Headaches.
Sweating or chills.
Poor appetite.
Etonitazone is a synthetic opioid, which means, in case of an overdose, naloxone should be administered quickly if safe to do so. It can reverse the opioid component and may save a life. Beware that due to the strength of these drugs and other synthetic opioids, several doses of naloxone may be required.
Signs of an overdose include:
Breathlessness or loss of consciousness.
Limp limbs.
Blueish tinge to lips and fingernails.
If you believe someone has taken an overdose:
Make sure the area is safe with nothing around that the individual can hurt themselves on.
Check for signs of an overdose - pinch the ear and gently shake their shoulders to see if they respond.
Call 999 and ask for an ambulance.
If you have access to naloxone, use it. This won't harm them, and it could save a life.
Put them in the recovery position.
Monitor and give support to the individual until the ambulance arrives. You can administer a second dose of naloxone if needed.
Take care of your personal safety and dispose of any unused naloxone or sharp objects.
Share this alert with those who might use similar substances or work with those who do, and encourage them to seek help and advice. Ensure those who need to be are aware of the signs of overdose and the appropriate emergency response, including the use of naloxone where indicated. Report any unusual drug-related presentations or adverse reactions through local reporting channels. Stay alert and share this information.
Raising awareness can prevent harm and save lives.
