PETERBOROUGH- Peterborough Public Health has issued two drug poisoning alerts after fentanyl products were found laced with other deadly drugs.
Officials say a dark red pebble substance sold as fentanyl has tested positive for fentanyl analogues and LSD.
LSD effects typically last 8-12 hours and may have the following side effects: visual effects, alerted perception of self & environment, panic, paranoia, increased risk taking, and/or psychosis. Naloxone will not impact the effects of LSD, but will work on fentanyl analogues. Always use naloxone if you suspect a drug poisoning.
A green rock substance being sold as fentanyl:
- Tested positive for para-fluorofentanyl (PFF) and xylazine
- PFF is a highly potent, synthetic fentanyl analogue
- Naloxone will work on PFF and should always be used if you suspect a poisoning
- Xylazine can cause sedative effects and wounds that require medical attention
A tranquilizer, medetomidine, has also been detected in recent samples:
- Mass spectrometer drug testing has confirmed presence of medetomidine in recent samples from Peterborough
- A type of veterinary tranquilizer, like xylazine
- Considered to be more potent, longer acting, and cause greater sedation than xylazine
Officials say the following harm reduction practices are recommended:
DON’T USE ALONE
- Fix with a friend, visit the Consumption Treatment Services site at 220 Simcoe Street between 9:30 a.m.- 9:00 p.m.
- Call the National Overdose Response Service at 1-888-688-6677.
START LOW, GO SLOW
- Use a very small amount. Use new equipment every time and never share supplies.
INJECT SAFELY
- Clean the injection site well. Take your time finding veins.
- Never attempt to sharpen or sterilize used needles. Don’t touch or lick the tip of the needle.
PRACTICE WOUND CARE
- Wounds may appear anywhere on the body and are very difficult to heal on their own. Seek medical support for treatment of skin ulcers or abscesses to prevent the risk of infection.
USE NALOXONE & MONITOR BREATHING
- Naloxone does not work on all drugs, but will help with any opioids that may be present. Monitor breathing regularly.
- Learn where to get a naloxone kit at ontario.ca/page/where-get-free-naloxone-kit
Call 911 if breathing is shallow, erratic, or has stopped.
