Warning in London: Green "80" Pills Linked to Two Deaths and Hospitalisation Contain Dangerous Synthetic Opioid

Pills containing MDMA, ketamine, and the potent opioid Isotonitazene are circulating in London clubs, prompting urgent health warnings after multiple overdoses

A serious drug alert has been issued in London after a batch of green pills marked with “80” was linked to two deaths and one hospitalisation last weekend. The pills, currently circulating in nightclubs, reportedly contain a dangerous mix of MDMA, ketamine, and Isotonitazene — a powerful synthetic opioid associated with a high risk of overdose.

The warning was released by Release Drugs, a UK-based drug welfare and harm reduction organisation, following incidents in Southall, Ealing. It remains unclear whether the pills were being sold as MDMA or another substance, raising further concerns among health professionals and nightlife communities.

What is Isotonitazene?

According to a study published by the British Medical Journal (BMJ), Isotonitazene is a synthetic opioid of the benzimidazole class. It is chemically similar to fentanyl but can be even more potent, making it extremely dangerous even in small doses. Isotonitazene has been associated with a growing number of overdose deaths across Europe and North America, especially when mixed unknowingly with other drugs.

Source: BMJ, 2021 – Isotonitazene: The new opioid on the streets

Symptoms to watch out for

If you or someone you know has consumed a green pill marked “80” and experiences any of the following symptoms, seek emergency medical attention immediately:

• Dizziness

• Uncontrolled vomiting

• Slowed reflexes

• Extreme drowsiness

• Loss of consciousness

These may be signs of opioid intoxication or overdose, which requires urgent intervention.

Read this next: UK Vape Ban Starts June 1: £600 Fines and Stockpiling Surge Ahead of Crackdown

The importance of drug testing and awareness in nightlife

This incident underscores the growing importance of drug testing services and harm reduction awareness, especially within electronic music communities and nightlife environments. Substances sold as recreational drugs may contain unexpected and potentially lethal compounds.

Stay informed and help raise awareness. Drug safety saves lives.

Organisations such as Release are working to spread life-saving information and promote safer environments through education, alerts, and advocacy.

[ H/T Mixmag ]