Police in St. Anthony are warning of the presence of a narcotic nearly 20 times more potent than fentanyl.

RCMP seized an unknown substance following an overdose death in December and sent the tablets off for analysis.

The results identified the substance to be Nitazine, an extremely potent narcotic that causes deep sedation and attacks the respiratory system, leading to death.

The tablets, which were advertised as morphine, are believed to have been purchased online by the deceased.

Police are warning against purchasing illegal substances online as their labels often do not match the contents.