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A visual of the counterfeit oxycodone pills found in Kelowna. (Image Credit: Interior Health)
By Liam Verster
Drug Alert

Counterfeit Oxycodone found in Kelowna

Jan 29, 2026 | 11:05 AM

A substance falsely being sold as oxycodone poses a high risk of overdose.

Interior Health (IH) said the counterfeit drug found in Kelowna did not actually contain oxycodone, but did contain Fentanyl or its analogues.

“Fentanyl is up to 75 times stronger than oxycodone. The quantity of fentanyl (or analog) in these tablets is unknown and can vary from one tablet to another,” IH said in its drug alert.

“Using illicit tablets is not recommended due to heightened risk of overdose. Be aware of risk of fakes if not purchasing from a pharmacy.” 

People were advised to have their drugs checked, to use them at a Safe Consumption Site, to not mix them with any other substances, to start with a small amount and wait before taking more, to carry and know how to use Naloxone, and to download and use the LifeGuard App.

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