PETERBOROUGH-The Peterborough Police Service has issued a caution to the public after toxicology reports linked a recent death to the drug carfentanil.
Police say they received a toxicology report relating to a suspected overdose death in November of 2017. This report confirmed that the victim had carfentanil in their system according to police. The investigation is ongoing by the coroner’s office to determine if this may have been the cause of death.
Police are reminding individuals who consume non-prescribed drugs to remain vigilant saying many of the drugs now purchased through the illicit market often include other drugs and additives.
Carfentanil, being used as a cutting agent in illicit drugs, is 10,000 times stronger than morphine and can be fatal in very small doses. Carfentanil was developed as a tranquilizer for large animals, such as elephants.
Free naloxone kits, which can temporarily reverse the effects of an overdose are available though some pharmacies and medical providers. Further information can be received by contacting Peterborough Aids Resource Network (PARN), Four Counties Addiction Services Team (Fourcast) or visiting https://www.ontario.ca/page/where-get-free-naloxone-kit
