New potent substance circulating March 8, 2019 [Drug Warning]

Poster version of this Drug Warning (PDF, 377 KB)

The Community Drug Strategy has received multiple reports of a new potent substance circulating in Sudbury.

• There are multiple reports of a new potent substance circulating in Sudbury.
• Unconfirmed reports of dye possibly being used to create various colours including blue and white in the illicit drug supply.
• Use of these substances may lead to the increased risks of an overdose.
• Multiple doses of naloxone may be needed to reverse overdose.
• Street drugs may be cut or mixed with substances such as fentanyl or carfentanil. Even a very small amount of these substances can cause an overdose.
• Overdoses can be fatal. An overdose occurs when a person uses more of a substance, or combination of substances, than their body can handle.

Prevent overdoses and save lives:

• Avoid mixing drugs, including prescribed, over the counter and illegal drugs.
• Avoid drinking alcohol while using other drugs.
• Use caution when switching substances: start with a lower dose than you usually would.
• If you have not used in a while, start with a lower dose. Your tolerance may be lower.
• Avoid using drugs when you are alone.
• Carry a naloxone kit.
• Call 911 if you suspect an overdose.

Overdose symptoms include:

• blue lips or nails
• dizziness and confusion
• the person can’t be woken up
• choking, gurgling or snoring sounds
• slow, weak or no breathing
• drowsiness or difficulty staying awake

Please distribute this information widely to help share the message.

For a free naloxone kit, contact The Point at Public Health Sudbury & Districts, Réseau Access Network, Sudbury Action Centre for Youth (SACY) or ask your local pharmacist.

http://www.ontario.ca/page/get-naloxone-kits-free

This item was last modified on April 10, 2019