Image Credit: ADOBE STOCK
February 06, 2021 - 9:30 AM
Interior Health has issued alerts this week for drugs that contain benzodiazepines, fentanyl and other harmful substances in the Okanagan and Kamloops.
The first alert was issued Feb. 3, in Penticton for a black tar-like chunky substance being sold as fentanyl. The drug also contains benzodiazepines.
There is a high risk of overdose for users of this substance, who may also experience prolonged sedition and may not be responsive to naloxone.
The alert remains in effect until Feb. 10.
The second alert was issued Feb. 4, for beige and white powders that are being sold as fentanyl in Kelowna and West Kelowna.
The drug contains both benzodiazepines and fentanyl, which leads to a higher risk of overdose and prolonged sedation.
Users may be unresponsive to naloxone.
The alert is in effect until Feb. 11.
In Kamloops, a white powder that is being sold as cocaine actually contains methamphetamine, cocaine and levamisole, according to the health authority’s drug alert issued Feb. 5.
The risk includes a stimulant overdose/over amping.
Levamisolee can cause infections, including fever, skin colour changes (purplish), and other severe brain disorders. Risk increases with regular use, meaning two or more days of the week, according to Interior Health.
The alert is in effect until Feb. 12.
Interior Health recommends that users get their drugs checked at overdose prevention or supervised consumption sites, to avoid using drugs and alcohol together and to not use drugs alone.
“If you must use while alone, consider using the Lifeguard app which can connect you with 9-1-1 emergency responders if you overdose,” according to Interior Health.
For more information on drug alerts and safe consumption sites, visit the health authority’s website.
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