Counterfeit “PEZ”-Like Tablets Containing Etizolam Circulating in Montreal: A Serious Public Health Warning

Montreal Public Health has issued an urgent warning regarding the circulation of pink tablets resembling PEZ candy that contain etizolam, a potent sedative not approved for sale in Canada.

These tablets are particularly concerning because:

• They visually resemble PEZ candies, which are popular with children.
• They may be mistaken for harmless sweets.
• They contain etizolam, a powerful central nervous system depressant.

At Centrum Pharmacy, patient safety and overdose prevention are central to our commitment to Complete, Comprehensive, Caring, and Connected Care. We want our community to clearly understand the risks and know exactly what to do.

What Is Etizolam?

Etizolam is a thienodiazepine, pharmacologically similar to benzodiazepines such as Valium. Although it is prescribed in some countries for anxiety and insomnia, it is not authorized for medical sale in Canada.

Etizolam is frequently identified in:

• Counterfeit “street” pills
• Illicitly manufactured tablets
• Drugs sold as something else (including fake prescription medications)

Its pharmacodynamic effects include:

• Sedation
• Dizziness
• Loss of balance
• Confusion
• Respiratory depression

When combined with opioids, alcohol, or other sedatives, the risk of respiratory distress and fatal overdose increases significantly.

Why These Tablets Are Especially Dangerous

Montreal Public Health reports that similar tablets circulated in Quebec in 2020 and were linked to overdoses. In at least one case, tablets also contained cocaine in addition to etizolam — highlighting the unpredictable composition of counterfeit drugs.

The current tablets:

• Are pink
• Resemble PEZ candy
• Contain etizolam
• May be unknowingly consumed

This creates two distinct public health risks:

1. Unintentional overdose in substance users
2. Accidental ingestion by children or adults who mistake them for candy

This is not a theoretical risk. Sedative-hypnotic overdose can lead to:

• Unconsciousness
• Minimal response to sound or pain
• Slow or stopped breathing
• Brain injury
• Death

Overdose Prevention: What Public Health Recommends

Montreal Public Health recommends the following harm-reduction strategies:

• Reduce the dose to test effects
• Use drug-checking services
• Avoid using alone
• Stay connected with someone while using
• Have naloxone readily available
• Use supervised consumption services
• Avoid mixing substances
• Do not all use at the same time in group settings

If someone shows signs of overdose, call 911 immediately.

The Role of Naloxone

Naloxone can reverse opioid overdoses and is safe to administer even if opioids are not present. While naloxone does not reverse benzodiazepines directly, counterfeit drugs frequently contain opioids without the user’s knowledge.

Having naloxone available can save a life.

At Centrum Pharmacy:

• We provide naloxone kits.
• We train patients and families on how to recognize overdose.
• We demonstrate how to properly administer naloxone.
• We provide judgment-free counseling.

Pharmacist-led counseling is critical. Retail sales without clinical oversight put lives at risk. Our pharmacists ensure patients understand drug interactions, respiratory depression risks, and signs of toxicity.

Protecting Children and Families

Because these tablets resemble candy, parents must be vigilant.

If you suspect accidental ingestion:

• Call 911 immediately
• Do not wait for symptoms
• Bring the tablet (if safely possible) for identification

Secure storage of all medications and substances is essential.

How Centrum Pharmacy Supports Our Community

Centrum Pharmacy is deeply integrated with Orleans Family Health Clinic and actively recruits physicians to improve access to primary care. Our minor ailment and public health model ensures that patients receive:

• Complete Care – addressing immediate risks
• Comprehensive Care – reviewing medication safety and interactions
• Caring Care – nonjudgmental support
• Connected Care – integration with physicians and healthcare teams

Public health crises demand professional oversight — not anonymous retail access.

If you have concerns about substance safety, naloxone, or medication interactions, speak directly with one of our pharmacists today.

Your safety matters.

Disclaimer: The medical information on this site is provided as an information resource only and is not to be used or relied on for any diagnostic or treatment purposes. This information does not substitute for professional diagnosis and treatment. Please do not initiate, modify, or discontinue any treatment, medication, or supplement solely based on this information. Always seek the advice of your healthcare provider first. Full Disclaimer.