REGINA — Saskatchewan health officials have issued a drug alert for the Regina area after 100 overdoses were reported during the first 10 days of June.
The Regina Overdose Outreach Team and Regina Fire and Protective Services reported 100 overdoses between June 1 and 10, including as many as 22 overdoses on June 5 and 17 on June 7.
At least two suspected overdose-related deaths have occurred during the same period.
The Saskatchewan Ministry of Health said the fatalities indicate a higher risk of overdose and death from drugs circulating in the Regina area.
The substances involved are unknown. In one reported case, the product was pink. In another instance, a substance may have been sold as methamphetamine.
The drugs may contain unknown opioids, benzodiazepines or methamphetamine.
Health officials said naloxone was effective in many of the reported cases. Naloxone can counter the effects of opioids, but it does not counter other substances, such as benzodiazepines. Multiple doses may be required.
People are urged to call 911 immediately if someone is experiencing an overdose.
Take-home naloxone kits are available in Saskatchewan. People can call HealthLine 811 to find a location.
Anyone using illegally acquired drugs alone can also call the National Overdose Response Service at 1-888-688-NORS (6677).
The Good Samaritan Drug Overdose Act provides some legal protection for people who seek emergency help during an overdose or witness an overdose.
Information about drug-checking supplies and services is available through the Government of Saskatchewan’s overdose information webpage.
People can also sign up for Saskatchewan drug alerts by texting JOIN to 1-833-35-B-SAFE (352-7233).
The alert is in effect until June 17.
