There is another dangerous and potent substance circulating among users of illegal drugs in the Sudbury and Manitoulin districts, said a warning issued by Sudbury's Community Drug Strategy group.
The newer drug has the clinical name of Flubromazolam, which is also known as liquid Xanax and is described as a potent designer benzodiazepine (benzo).
Health professionals warn that consuming the substance can result in strong sedation and partial amnesia lasting more than 24 hours.
Death can occur if the substance is taken in large quantities, said the warning statement.
The warning also mentioned that in Toronto’s drug-checking report of Sept. 25, 31 per cent of samples expected to be fentanyl contained bromazolam, a class of substance which includes flubromazolam.
Benzos and opioids when taken together increase the risk of poisoning (overdose) and death, said the warning statement.
"An overdose occurs when a person uses more of a substance, or combination of substances, than their body can handle. As a consequence, the brain is unable to control basic life functions. The person might pass out, stop breathing or experience a seizure. Overdoses can be fatal," said the statement.
Warnings are published online by the Community Drug Strategy which is part of the Sudbury health unit web page.
