Carfentanil – October 17, 2017 [Drug Alert]

What is Carfentanil?

Carfentanil is a synthetic opioid analgesic that is 100 times stronger than fentanyl. It is the most potent opioid known. Just a few granules is enough to trigger a fatal overdose. It was created in the 1970’s as an elephant or large mammal tranquilizer.

Poster version of this Drug Alert (PDF)

The facts

The plain chemical looks like table salt.
It is more potent than morphine and fentanyl.
It can be sold in several forms, including powder, blotter paper, tablets, and spray.
It can be absorbed through the skin or inhaled.
It can be added to other drugs in any form.

Overdose symptoms include:

slowed breathing
drowsiness
disorientation
sleepiness
pinpoint pupils
clammy skin

The onset of these symptoms usually
occurs within minutes of exposure.

Be safe

Using opioids daily or occasionally can result in an elevated risk of overdose.
Start with smaller amounts than usual.
Use with other people, but NOT at the exact same time. Never use drugs alone.
Have naloxone (NARCAN®) ready.
An overdose occurs quickly.
Call 911.
Stay with the person until help arrives.

For more information, visit the Ontario Poison Centre.

Naloxone kits

Contact Réseau ACCESS Network or ask your pharmacist for a free naloxone kit. http://www.ontario.ca/page/get-naloxone-kits-free

Community Involvement and Accomplishments

January 2015 Community Drug Strategy Endorsed by Greater Sudbury Police Services Board
February 2015 Community Drug Strategy endorsed by Sudbury & District Health Unit Board of Health
Over 75 lbs of old unused medications were received during Drug Drop Off Day, 2015.
Launched the Patch4Patch program June 1, 2015
City Council endorsed the Community Drug Strategy for the City of Greater Sudbury: a Call for Action, October 20, 2015
Funding from the Civil Remedies Grant received.
Hosted an event for 150 people who learned about Resiliency and the Thriving Mindset from Wayne Hammond.
2016 Annual Report published.

This item was last modified on March 23, 2018