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HALIFAX, N.S. —

Halifax Regional Police are warning the public of a synthetic opioid "similar to but stronger than fentanyl."

On Feb. 12, officers searched a residence on Dentith Road and seized multiple items, including 1,900 unknown pills, police said in a news release.

The pills were sent to Health Canada for analysis, where it was confirmed that the tablets are "isotonitazene, a synthetic opioid similar to but stronger than fentanyl."

This was the first seizure of isotonitazene in Halifax.

The pills are white, in the shape of a triangle and have an M on one side and an 8 on the other.

"The appearance of the pill may lead people to believe they are consuming a different drug," the release said.

"Given the potency of the drug, a person may need several doses of naloxone to counter an overdose caused by isotonitazene. Police are urging anyone who consumes the drug to seek immediate medical assistance."