Increase in Suspected Drug Poisonings (Overdoses)
The Community Drug Strategies have received reports of an increase in the number of drug poisonings (overdoses) with heavy and prolonged sedation and unexpected reactions from the use of substances in the Sudbury and districts area.
While we cannot identify the substance(s) causing the poisonings, this situation serves as an important reminder to the community that street drugs may be cut or mixed with substances such as benzos (benzodiazepines), xylazine, medetomidine, fentanyl, or carfentanil. Frontline workers warn that more toxic substances may be circulating locally.
A poisoning occurs when a person uses a substance and their body is unable to handle the effects. As a result, the brain is unable to control basic life functions. The person might pass out, stop breathing, or experience a seizure. Poisonings can be fatal and non-fatal.
For information on how to prevent or respond to drug poisonings, click here.
Source: Public Health Sudbury & Districts
