The Royal Newfoundland Constabulary is warning the public of the presence of a dangerous drug detected in the province.

The RNC says they have confirmed the presence of Bromazolam, which was present in a pill presenting as Xanax.

They say the testing was conducted in connection to a recent sudden death on the northeast Avalon.

The drug is not approved for use in any country, and can lead to death—especially when taken with other opioids such as fentanyl.

Bromazolam is considered a benzo (benzodiazepines), and the RNC stress that there are significant concerns with that drug being combined with opioids, which is known as benzo-dope, and can increase the risk of overdose and death.

Naloxone kits are not effective in combatting the effects of benzos.

The Constabulary is encouraging people who are using illicit drugs to be aware of the presence of Bromazolam, never use drugs alone, check drug strength by beginning with small amounts, have Naloxone on hand, and to talk with a health care provider about reducing risk.