Saskatoon, Saskatchewan – An increase in overdoses has prompted the Saskatchewan Health Ministry to issue an alert in Saskatoon. The Saskatoon Fire Department reported responding to a total of 67 overdoses and one suspicious death from March 9 to March 11.
The overdoses have been linked to a brownish-red substance with dangerous levels of fentanyl, causing severe health risks and unusual delayed effects in individuals. Prairie Harm Reduction, an organization dedicated to addressing substance abuse issues, has raised concerns about the potency of the fentanyl, noting that it takes multiple doses of naloxone to revive patients affected by this particular strain.
In response to the spike in overdoses, Prairie Harm Reduction has been actively seeking donations of naloxone to support their efforts in saving lives. The organization has documented 11 overdose cases between March 10 and March 12 alone, further underscoring the urgency of the situation.
Furthermore, the Saskatoon Fire Department revealed that they have responded to over 300 overdoses since February 25, including several incidents involving suspicious deaths. The Ministry of Health has issued a warning regarding the appearance of the dangerous substance, cautioning the public about its brownish-red coloration.
Experts have emphasized the importance of naloxone in reversing the effects of opioids in an individual’s system, despite the presence of benzodiazepines in the tainted substances. While benzodiazepines pose challenges to naloxone’s efficacy, health professionals advise using the antidote in overdose situations to combat potential opioid-related complications.
Individuals witnessing an overdose are encouraged to contact the National Overdose Response Service for immediate assistance. Naloxone kits are readily available in Saskatchewan, provided for free by the government to individuals at risk of opioid overdose or those who may encounter such emergencies.
Moreover, the Good Samaritan Drug Overdose Act in Canada offers legal protection to individuals seeking help during overdose situations, extending safeguards to those present at the scene when emergency aid is summoned. Awareness of overdose symptoms, including respiratory distress, skin discoloration, and difficulty remaining conscious, is essential in ensuring prompt intervention and potentially saving lives.
