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Drug alert extended after three suspected overdose deaths

Deep yellow, pale yellow, orange, and green fentanyl were colours of concern raised by community members
CambridgeToday Staff
Kitchener CTS new
File photo of Kitchener's CTS on Duke Street.

NEWS RELEASE
CONSUMPTION AND TREATMENT SERVICES
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This alert is an extension of the Community Drug Alert released on Nov. 6 that included 35 suspected overdose/drug poisonings from Oct. 31 to Nov. 5.

From Nov. 11-14 there were three suspected overdose/drug poisoning related deaths. Deep yellow, pale yellow, orange, and green fentanyl are colours of concern.

The Kitchener CTS Drug Checking Program detected medetomidine/dexmedetomidine, fentanyl analogues, xylazine, and oxazepam. The presence of opioids in combination with medetomidine/dexmedetomidine increases the risk of an overdose/drug poisoning and death. When using medetomidine/dexmedetomidine, the person may not wake up for a long time. If possible, stay with the person until they wake up or help arrives.

Concerns were raised by community members about the unpredictability of the meth supply which may cause unexpected reactions. Naloxone does not reverse the effects of non-opioid substances such as xylazine, oxazepam, and medetomidine/dexmedetomidine. Naloxone should still be given in suspected overdoses. While a connection between the substances identified and the reported drug overdose/poisonings is not known, details on these substances are included for your information.

IF SOMEONE OVERDOSES:

  • Call 911.
  • Administer naloxone if an opioid drug poisoning is suspected.
  • Perform rescue breathing and/or chest compressions.
  • Do not give any other substance(s) because this can make the overdose/drug poisoning worse.
  • If no improvements, continue to give naloxone 2-3 minutes apart until paramedics arrive.
  • 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 an overdose/drug 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.
  • Complete release can he read here.

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