Sudbury's Community Drug Strategy has issued a new warning for a dangerous drug in the city.
Potent fentanyl analogs including fluoro-fentanyl and methylfentanyl-related drugs are confirmed to be circulating in the Sudbury and Manitoulin districts area, said a news release from Public Health Sudbury and Districts (PHSD).
The warning included the following details:
- Fluoro-fentanyl is known to be up to two times stronger than fentanyl.
- Methylfentanyl-related drugs are known to be up to 10 times stronger than fentanyl.
The warning said people who consume these substances might significantly increase the risk of poisoning themselves. Multiple doses of naloxone may be needed to help reverse a poisoning, said the warning.
"Street drugs may be cut or mixed with other substances such as fentanyl or carfentanil, benzos (benzodiazepines), xylazine and medetomidine. Even a very small amount of these substances can cause poisoning," said the warning.
A drug poisoning occurs when a person uses more of a substance, or a combination of substances than their body can handle. This can impair the brain’s ability to control basic life functions. As a result, the person may pass out, stop breathing, or experience a seizure. Poisonings can be either fatal or non-fatal, said the warning statement.
The health unit said steps can be taken to prevent poisonings and save lives. This would including carrying a naloxone kit (free at pharmacies, health unit) and knowing how to use it.
The health unit website also offers information and advice on how to recognize drug overdoses and how to get help for people who might be in danger of drug poisoning.
