Fraser Health has issued a toxic drug alert after several samples sold as fentanyl tested positive for high levels of carfentanil.
The March 6 toxic drug alert for the Fraser Health region said these samples varied in colour and texture.
“Carfentanil is a synthetic opioid that is 50 to 100 times stronger than fentanyl,” said the alert. “It is primarily used in veterinary medicine for large animals and is not intended for human use.”
According to Fraser Health, naloxone can reverse its effects, but multiple doses may be necessary. People are advised to monitor the person’s breathing before administering more naloxone.
“Friends, family and community members using unregulated substances may face increased risk of overdose from injection, inhalation, and ingestion,” said the alert.
Fraser Health has provided the following tips for safe drug use:
- Explore with service providers options for witnessing consumption and local overdose prevention sites.
- Stagger use with friends so someone can respond if needed.
- Try to avoid using drugs alone, but if you do use alone, let someone know and ask them to check on you. It’s also suggested you download the Lifeguard app (it’s available in English, French and Punjabi) or the Brave app (which anonymously connects you with an undisclosed community member if you use alone; your identity stays secret, and your data is not collected.) People who do not have cell data can call the National Overdose Response Service at 1-886-688-6677.
- Take a small amount and wait to see how it feels.
- Avoid mixing substances as this increases the risk of overdose. This includes alcohol and prescription drugs.
- Find local harm-reduction services.
- Get your drugs checked.
- Carry naloxone. Naloxone, a medication that can reverse an overdose, is available free to people who use drugs and can be purchased at pharmacies for non-drug users.
- Text JOIN to 253787 to receive text alerts. Text notifications will be sent to subscribers who want timely information about illicit substances and increases in toxic drug poisonings in their region.
In New Westminster, the Starship Health Contact Centre provides a variety of services including witnessed consumption and drug testing. Located at 40 Begbie St. (accessed via Alexander Street), it is open daily from 8 a.m. to 10:30 p.m.
