Niagara police warn of laced fentanyl

Niagara police have discovered benzimidazole – an illegal pain medication – in fentanyl that was seized from Welland in December 2024.

Benzimidazoles were originally developed as a painkiller, but are not approved for medical use in Canada.

They can induce euphoria and potentially be addictive.

Overdosing on benzimidazoles can be fatal. The risks are significantly heightened when combined with alcohol or other substances

Officers are warning the public to practice drug safety, never use alone, learn the signs of overdose and always carry naloxone.

READ MORE: Drug trafficker deported to Canada by American officials