Public health warns of rising drug poisonings in Sudbury district

Public Health Sudbury & Districts warns of rising overdoses linked to benzodiazepines and other substances in illicit drugs.

Public Health Sudbury & Districts has issued a drug warning following a spike in poisonings and unexpected reactions to substances in the Sudbury and Manitoulin districts.

The alert, issued Monday, cites concerns over contaminated street drugs but notes that “the cause of the increase is unknown.” Officials warn that substances may be mixed with dangerous additives, including benzodiazepines – often referred to as benzos – xylazine, medetomidine, fentanyl or carfentanil.

Contaminated substances circulating

A “pink rock-like substance” reportedly being sold as fentanyl has been linked to prolonged sedation in the region. Health officials urge caution, particularly due to the risk of benzos and tranquilizers, which can cause extended unconsciousness.

If you come across someone sedated, Public Health Sudbury & Districts advises:

• Move them to a safe, warm, dry place.
• Stay with them and monitor their condition.
• Ensure limbs aren’t restricted.
• Provide rescue breaths if breathing is impaired.

How to prevent poisonings

Drug poisonings occur when the body can’t handle a substance’s effects, leading to unconsciousness, seizures, or death. Public Health recommends:

• Carry naloxone – a free kit can be picked up from Public Health, the Réseau ACCESS Network, local pharmacies. For more information on where to find naloxone kits, visit ontario.ca/page/get-naloxone-kits-free. (Information on how to use naloxone can be found here.)
• Avoid mixing substances, including alcohol, prescriptions and street drugs.
• Start with a lower dose and use slowly.
• Don’t use alone – have a trusted person present or connect with a virtual safe consumption service like the National Overdose Response Service at 1-888-688-6677 or the Brave App.

Responding to an overdose

If a drug poisoning occurs:

• Call 911 immediately and stay with the person.
• Administer naloxone – it’s safe even if opioids aren’t involved.
• Place an unconscious person in the recovery position.

Recognizing poisoning symptoms

Health officials say that symptoms vary by substances.

Opioid poisoning:

• Bluish, purple, or greyish skin/lips
• Dizziness, confusion, or inability to stay awake
• Choking, gurgling or snoring sounds
• Slow, weak or no breathing

Benzodiazepine toxicity:

• Extreme drowsiness or unconsciousness
• Poor balance or slurred speech
• Blackouts and memory loss

Public Health urges the community to share the warning to help reduce risks.