How Do I?

W-18 and Fentanyl


What are the W-series compounds?

The “W-series” compounds are a class of opioids discovered at the University of Alberta in 1982. There are 32 compounds, denoted W-1 to W-32. They have never been used clinically. Recently it has emerged that some of these compounds, notably W-18 which is 100x more toxic than fentanyl, are being sold as street drugs in North America. These compounds are not currently regulated under the Controlled Drug and Substances Act and as such can be manufactured and transacted freely. (Resource Material)

What is Fentanyl?

Fentanyl is a synthetic opiate narcotic, a prescription drug used primarily for cancer patients in severe pain. It is roughly 50 to 100 times more toxic than morphine. Heroin, cocaine, oxycodone, and other drugs can be cut with fentanyl, in powder, liquid or pill form. It often comes in similar packaging. If you are a new drug user, you are particularly at risk should you use drugs cut with fentanyl. You can’t see it, smell it or taste it, but if your drug of choice is cut with fentanyl, it can kill you.

Fentanyl-related overdoses are on the rise. If you’re going to use drugs, be DRUG SMART.

Letter to Parents

In May of 2016, Chief Constable Bob Rich sent out a letter to parents addressing the more than 200 people in BC who died after taking street drugs containing fentanyl. In the letter the Chief urges parents to learn about drugs so they can have a meaningful discussion with their children. Letter to Parents from Chief Constable Bob Rich









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