A Community Drug Alert has been issued in Waterloo Region after five drug poisoning-related deaths between October 11 and October 21.
In a social media post Waterloo Region Integrated Drugs Strategy said high amounts of Oxazepam, a benzodiazepine-related drug, were detected in samples.
Oxazepam has a slow onset that can slow or stop breathing, especially if an opioid or alcohol was recently used. Respiratory illnesses and infections such COVID-19, influenza, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) can also increase the risk of overdose.
Naloxone doesn’t reverse the effects of Oxazepam or other non-opioid substances such as Flubromazolam, Dexmedetomidine, and Bromazolam, however it should still be given in suspected overdoses.
Naloxone kits and other harm reduction supplies are available free and can be picked up at public health or community partner locations. For more information visit regionofwaterloo.ca/harmreduction or call 519-575-4400.
The Kitchener CTS Drug Checking Program has also found high potency Fentanyl, Para-fluorofentanyl, Flubromazolam AKA 'Liquid Xanax', Fentanyl Analogues, Medetomidine/Dexmedetomidine and Bromazolam in samples over the last week.
IF SOMEONE OVERDOSES:
- 1. Call 911.
- 2. Administer naloxone if an opioid drug overdose/poisoning is suspected.
- 3. Perform rescue breathing and/or chest compressions.
- 4. Do not give any other substance(s) because this can make the drug overdose/poisoning worse.
- 5. If no improvements, continue to give naloxone 2-3 minutes apart until paramedics arrive.
- 6. If you have to leave the person unattended, put them in the recovery position.
IF USING SUBSTANCES:
- Never use substances alone. If using with a friend, do not use at the exact same time or use the National Overdose Response Service (NORS) at 1-888-688-6677.
- Try a small amount first and use less drugs when your tolerance may be lower.
- Avoid mixing substances – do not use other downers (e.g. benzos, alcohol, and other opioids).
- Have naloxone ready and know how to use it.
- Use at the Consumption & Treatment Services (CTS) site at 150 Duke Street West (Open 7 days a week, 9am-9pm, 8:30pm last call). Drug checking services are also available at the CTS site. Visit https://sanguen.com/drug-checking-program/
- Anyone who is involved in a drug overdose/poisoning including the person needing help and anyone at the scene is protected from simple possession charges if you call 911 by the Good Samaritan Drug Overdose Act.
