By CKPG Today

Toxic drug alert

Increase in drug overdoses in Prince George leads to toxic drug alert

May 16, 2023 | 8:16 AM

PRINCE GEORGE — Northern Health has issued a toxic drug alert.

The health authority says it’s due to an increase in overdoses in Prince George linked to brown sugar granules. Drug checking services indicated high levels of fentanyl (30%) and benzodiazepine (5-10%).

“Reportedly, it h as been causing people to black out and behave unusually, consistent with benzodiazepine effects. Both fentanyl and benzodiazepine test strips have shown positive results.”

For your safety, Northern Health shares the following tips:

• Get overdose prevention, recognition, and response training; carry naloxone
• Try not to use alone. Make a plan and tell a buddy who can call for help if needed
• If you plan to use alone, use the Lifeguard or BeSafe app available free on the app store or on Toward the Heart website
• Know your tolerance. If you are sick or had a time of abstinence or reduced use, use much less
• When possible, avoid mixing drugs or mixing drugs with alcohol
• Test a small amount first, start low and go slow
• Use in an Overdose Prevention Site (OPS) if possible (see Prince George locations listed below)
• Get your drugs checked at Two Doors Down (Drug checking hours: 6 days a week, 11 am to 6 pm Wednesday to Sunday, closed Monday and Tuesday; Appointments can be made outside these hours by texting or calling 250-301-3285)
• Call 9-1-1 or your local emergency number right away if someone overdoses

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Local overdose prevention site (OPS)

• Two Doors Down, 1126 3rd Ave, Prince George, BC
  Hours: Tuesday to Sunday, 7 am to 11 am and 6 pm to 10 pm
• Northern Health Needle Exchange and Harm Reduction Clinic (OPS/APP), 277 George St, Prince George, BC
  Hours: Monday to Saturday, 1 pm to 6 pm

Alert expires: May 29, 2023