SASKATOON — Health officials have issued an overdose alert after drugs containing fentanyl, benzodiazepines and medetomidine were found in the Saskatoon area.
The Ministry of Health issued the alert on Nov. 6 after recent drug samples tested at Prairie Harm Reduction contained para-fluorofentanyl, fentanyl, benzodiazepines and the sedative medetomidine.
The substances appear as yellow, red, blue and pink chunks and can be smoked or injected, according to the alert. Officials say the drugs carry a high risk of overdose and death.
While naloxone can reverse the effects of fentanyl and other opioids, it does not counteract the sedative effects of benzodiazepines or medetomidine.
The ministry is urging the public to take precautions, including using a Take Home Naloxone Kit, calling the National Overdose Response Service if using drugs alone, and learning about drug-checking services available through the province’s overdose prevention website.
The overdose alert remains in effect until Nov. 13, at 11:59 p.m.
Authorities remind residents that the Good Samaritan Drug Overdose Act protects anyone who seeks emergency help during or after an overdose.
For more information or resources on overdose prevention, visit www.saskatchewan.ca/overdose.
