Nova Scotia Health sounds alarm on ‘ongoing elevated number’ of drug toxicities

Bags of illegal drugs are pictured. (CTV file photo)

Nova Scotia Health is warning the public about the unpredictability and strength of illegal drugs.

“Cumberland County is seeing an ongoing elevated number of daily drug toxicities… Some toxicities require multiple doses of naloxone or are unresponsive to naloxone,” reads a post from the health authority on Tuesday.

The statement comes about a week after Nova Scotia Health issued a warning about multiple suspected overdoses in Cumberland County, believed to be linked to fentanyl with high levels of toxicity.

Nova Scotia Health shares what to do in suspected instances of drug toxicity and overdose.

It says to call 911, remember naloxone is temporary and may need to be administered twice if the person becomes unresponsive again. The health authority also says to stay with the affected person until EHS arrives.

Naloxone is only effective for opioids and will not impact the effects of tranquilizers.

Nova Scotia Health urges drug users not to consume alone and have naloxone ready in case of an overdose.

“Expect the unexpected – Always assume street drugs may not be what you think and contain drugs different from or stronger than you expect. Pills that look like real medicine could be fake,” says the authority.

Free naloxone kits are available at most pharmacies and through harm reduction programs.

If you or someone you know is struggling with drug addiction, here are some resources that are available:

• Mental Health and Addictions Crisis Line – 1-888-429-8167
• Kids Help Phone [phone]; Text CONNECT to 686868
• Mental Health and Addictions Intake Service - (Mon-Fri 8:30-4:30; Tues and Thurs until 8 pm) - 1-855-922-1122
• 211 Nova Scotia - information and referrals to community and social services: Call 2-1-1 or 1-855-466-4994; Email: [e-mail]

For more Nova Scotia news, visit our dedicated provincial page