Drug warning: September 25, 2026
Public Health Sudbury & Districts is warning of a rise in drug poisonings (overdoses) and unexpected reactions to substances in the Sudbury and Manitoulin districts. Community reports suggest that some of the substances involved may have been obtained through a source in Greater Sudbury around the Energy Court encampment before being used in the Manitoulin District.
The cause of the increase is unknown. This serves as an important reminder that street drugs may be cut or mixed with substances such as benzos (benzodiazepines), xylazine, medetomidine, fentanyl, or carfentanil. If you use drugs, take steps to reduce your risk. Share this information to help save lives.
Key information
Community partners have reported:
- an increase in drug poisonings
- an increase in adverse reactions such as heavy nods (sedation) and vomiting
- multiple doses of naloxone being required
Due to concerns about benzodiazepines (benzos) and tranquilizers (xylazine and medetomidine), take steps to support someone who is sedated.
- Move the person to a safe place, ideally somewhere warm and dry.
- Stay with them and keep an eye on them.
- Check that limbs are not restricted.
- If they are having trouble breathing or not breathing, give rescue breaths.
How to prevent poisonings
A poisoning occurs when a person uses a substance, and their body cannot handle its effects. A person can pass out, stop breathing, or experience a seizure. Poisonings can be fatal or non-fatal.
- Carry a naloxone kit. It can help reverse an opioid poisoning. Know how to use it.
- Pick up a free naloxone kit at The Point, Réseau ACCESS Network, or ask your local hospital or pharmacy. Visit ontario.ca/page/get-naloxone-kits-free.
- Avoid mixing substances. This includes alcohol, prescription, over-the-counter, and street drugs.
- Start with a lower dose and go slow.
- Avoid using drugs when you are alone.
- Have a trusted person nearby or use a virtual safe consumption service like the National Overdose Response Service at 1.888.688.6677. This service provides 24/7 confidential and non-judgmental support, whenever and wherever you use drugs.
How to respond to poisonings
- Call 911. Stay with the person. Monitor their breathing until help arrives.
- GIVE NALOXONE. It won’t cause harm if opioids are not involved. The person may not wake up right away due to sedation. More doses may be needed.
- If the person is unconscious, place them in the recovery position.
- If you suspect a stimulant poisoning:
- Try to keep the person awake and help them stay calm.
- Cool them down with a damp washcloth on their forehead.
- If the person is having a seizure, move sharp or dangerous items away.
How to recognize poisonings
Different substances affect the body in different ways. Depending on the type of substance consumed, symptoms of a poisoning may look different.
Opioid poisoning symptoms:
- bluish, purple, or greyish skin, lips, or nails (depending on skin tone)
- dizziness, confusion, or inability to stay awake
- choking, gurgling, or snoring sounds
- slow, weak, or no breathing
Stimulant poisoning symptoms:
- seizures or limb spasms or rigidity
- chest pain, difficulty breathing, very shallow, or no breathing
- drooling or frothing from the mouth
- stroke-like symptoms: inability to speak clearly, numbness in the face, arms, or legs on one side of the body
Benzodiazepines (benzos) poisoning symptoms
Poisoning due to benzodiazepines may last for hours and may include:
- extreme sleepiness or passing out
- poor balance or movement control
- slurred speech
- blackouts and memory loss
Share this warning to help raise awareness and reduce the risk of drug poisonings.