Drug toxicity alert issued for Regina area

The province has issued an overdose alert for Regina and its surrounding area – after a sample of contaminated cannabis was discovered. (Sask. Ministry of Health)

The province has issued a drug toxicity alert for Regina and its surrounding area – after a sample of contaminated cannabis was discovered.

According to the alert, which was issued at around 2:30 p.m. Tuesday, fentanyl and benzodiazepines were discovered in a sample of cannabis tested at the Nēwo-Yōtina Friendship Centre in Regina.

The cannabis was purchased from an unregulated source.

Saskatchewan’s Ministry of Health says the drug poses a high risk of overdose or death. Naloxone will counter the effects of the fentanyl – but not the effects of the benzodiazepines.

The province encourages those who may be at risk to utilize drug checking supplies and services and reminds residents that the Good Samaritan Drug Overdose Act protects those who seek emergency help during an overdose or who witness an overdose.

The alert will remain in effect until Sept. 30.