Northern Health: Illicit Benzodiazepines or “Benzos” contaminating street drugs
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PRINCE GEORGE – In light of a recent increase in illicit Benzodiazepines (or “Benzoes”) contaminating street drugs in the Northern Health region, the health authority is urging users to reconsider or take steps to prevent overdose.
Benzodiazepines, or benzos, are a type of medication that “depresses” or slows down your brain activity. When benzos are mixed with opioids (a downer drug) there is a higher risk of overdose.
Individuals who have overdosed using drugs contaminated with benzos may be difficult to rouse and slow to respond to naloxone.
As a result, the health authority is calling for anyone who may suspect someone experiencing a benzo-related overdose to call 9-1-1 immediately, open their airway and give rescue breaths before administering naloxone (Narcan) if you have it.
