Fraser Health has issued a toxic drug alert in Hope, for a beige powder being sold as fentanyl.
The alert explains that the beige powder is testing positive for high concentrations of a new synthetic cannabinoid (called AB-MDMSBA) in combination with a fentanyl analogue (para-Fluorofentanyl) and a long-acting benzodiazepine (desalkylgidazepam).
The alert includes some key messages to share with people who use substances.
• Use less than you normally would
• Do a tester; try a little before your regular amount
• Try not to use alone, and if you do, have someone check on you
• Stagger use with friends so someone can respond if needed
• Know the signs of an opioid overdose (early signs may include unusual snoring, or taking less than 1 breath every 5 seconds)
• Call 9-1-1 quickly when you notice something isn't right (the Good Samaritan Drug Overdose Act provides immunity from simple possession charges for those who call 911 in the case of a toxic drug event)
• If you suspect the overdose is caused by a suspected/confirmed benzodiazepine, communicate this when help arrives
• Provide breaths (every 5 seconds until the person starts breathing on their own or help arrives)
• Get naloxone from locations listed here: towardtheheart.com/site-finder.
Fraser Health also has some tips for organizations, including reviewing their toxic drug event response plans and checking first aid supplies are up to date,including CPR masks. They suggest frequently checking areas where toxic drug events might occur, including washrooms, stairwells and quiet spaces, and
ensuring staff know how to respond to a toxic drug event, including calling 9-1-1, providing breaths and administering naloxone.
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