Fentanyl, benzos, and a naloxone-resistant animal tranquilizer were discovered by Northern Health in a drug circulating their health region.
They issued a toxic drug alert and said the drug being sold is called “down.” It is a purple paste and has been linked to overdoses requiring more than one administration of naloxone. People who use drugs are being advised to steer clear of down as it is not safe to smoke, inject, or consume in any form.
“(The) sample sold as ‘down’ has tested positive for fentanyl, benzos and medetomidine,” said Northern Health and the First Nations Health Authority in their alert.
A toxic drug alert is issued, instead of an overdose advisory, when the health authority is able to pinpoint the drug causing harm in communities. In the case of down, it is harming the entirety of northern B.C., hence, the region-wide alert.
Fentanyl and benzos, or benzodiazepine, are commonly taken street drugs and can be used as depressants. Both sedatives can cause irreparable harm if taken recreationally but are effective painkillers if taken under the instruction and supervision of a doctor.
Medetomidine, however, is not safe for human consumption. Northern Health described it is a “non-opioid sedative.” In pharmaceutical use, it is used to sedate animals for mild veterinary procedures, such as abscess draining or minor surgery.
In humans, the drug can cause a deep sedative state which can lead to an overdose or drug poisoning. Northern Health said people overdosing on down may require multiple doses of naloxone, the drug that can reverse the effects. Though, in some cases of people on down, it does not work.
Northern B.C. will remain under this advisory until Oct. 7, when Northern Health and the First Nations Health Authority reconsider the situation.
Anyone who uses drugs is reminded to use safely. The groups said not to use them alone and suggested seeking out a trusted person or visiting an overdose prevention site where assistance is readily available.
