REGINA — Health officials have issued an urgent drug alert after Regina Fire & Protective Services responded to a sharp rise in suspected overdoses on Nov. 18, with several cases involving unconsciousness and cardiac arrest.
According to the alert, multiple individuals required several doses of naloxone and emergency medical care, including hospital intervention. Officials say some people believed they were using methamphetamine, but the substances may have contained fentanyl, other unknown opioids or additional unidentified compounds.
The province warns that “unexpected substances and concentrations may be causing a high number of overdoses,” noting that while naloxone reverses opioid effects, it does not counter drugs such as methamphetamine.
The risk is considered high, with potential for overdose, loss of consciousness and cardiac arrest. The alert remains in effect until Nov. 26.
Actions to take
The province urges anyone who uses illicit substances — or who may be around people who do — to take steps to reduce risk:
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get a take home naloxone kit. Locations are available through HealthLine 811
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if using alone, call the National Overdose Response Service at 1-888-688-NORS (6677)
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know the Good Samaritan Drug Overdose Act, which protects those seeking emergency help
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access drug-checking supplies and services at saskatchewan.ca/overdose
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share the alert and display the poster
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find more overdose information and resources at saskatchewan.ca/overdose
Officials continue to monitor the situation and encourage residents to stay alert, stay prepared and seek immediate help if an overdose is suspected.
