Drug alert issued after deadly mix found in Saskatoon samples

(Courtesy: Ministry of Health)

The Saskatchewan Ministry of Health has issued another overdose alert for Saskatoon and area after samples tested by Prairie Harm Reduction showed a dangerous mix of drugs.

The samples show the drugs contained para-fluorofentanyl, benzodiazepines, fentanyl and/or medetomidine, a sedative used in veterinary anesthetics.

Officials are warning the drugs circulating have been sold as yellow, red, blue and pink chunks.

The substances may be smoked or injected.

They warn naloxone will only reverse the effects of fentanyl, so there’s a high risk of overdose and death if these drugs are consumed.

The alert will remain in effect until Nov. 13.

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The ministry is asking members of the public to be aware of the risks and take precautions such as getting a take-home naloxone kit. Call 811 to find locations where kits are available.

The Good Samaritan Drug Overdose Act protects anyone seeking emergency help during an overdose, or if you witness an overdose.

For additional resources and information on overdoses you can visit www.saskatchewan.ca/overdose.