In recent weeks, a dangerous batch of light green pills has been found circulating in London, raising serious public health concerns. These pills are marked with “80” on one side and “OP” on the other and are reportedly linked to the deaths of two young people in Ealing — a 28-year-old man and a 20-year-old woman.
Laboratory tests have revealed that these pills contain N-Pyrrolidino isotonitazene, a highly potent synthetic opioid, along with traces of ketamine and MDMA. N-Pyrrolidino isotonitazene belongs to the nitazene class of opioids, which are estimated to be 50 to 500 times more potent than heroin. This extreme potency makes accidental overdoses more likely, especially when users are unaware of the dangerous contents of what they believe to be legitimate medications or recreational drugs.
The UK government has taken swift action, adding 15 synthetic opioids—including 14 nitazenes—to the Class A drug list under the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971, enforcing the highest legal controls and severe penalties for those supplying or trafficking these substances.
Authorities and health organizations are urging everyone to exercise extreme caution. If you or someone around you begins feeling unwell after taking any substance, seek immediate medical attention. Initial symptoms may include dizziness, tiredness, or confusion. Individuals are also encouraged to carry naloxone, an opioid overdose antidote, which can reverse the effects of an overdose if administered promptly.
Clubs and venues, such as fabric in London, are taking steps to protect patrons. In a public notice, fabric advised attendees to seek help immediately from staff if feeling unwell and reminded everyone that they will not be judged for seeking assistance.
The tragic deaths linked to these counterfeit pills highlight the urgent need for awareness and caution. The community is encouraged to look after one another, avoid taking unknown substances, and report any suspicious pills to local authorities.
For more information and updates, you can refer to the official government publications:
Stay safe, and look out for each other.
