There were five drug-related poisonings treated by the emergency department at Peterborough Regional Health Center on Tuesday. The health unit suspects that it is the result of an opiate product with an increased level of toxicity. The health unit advises that street drugs can be cut or mixed with toxic substances and that using even a small amount of the drug can be fatal. Naloxone can be given to improve breathing, but it may not help the person regain consciousness, so the health unit advises calling 911 and continuing to monitor breathing until medical help arrives. If you are using medication, the health unit recommends:
Don’t use drugs yourself. Visit the Consumer Therapy Services website at 220 Simcoe St., open from 9:30 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., 7 days/week.
If you use it with a friend, don’t use it at the exact same time.
Have a plan – Have someone check you out or call the National Overdose Hotline at 1-888-688-6677.
Bring a naloxone kit. Keep it visible and close at hand.
Test your medicine by using a small amount first.
Call 911 immediately if someone cannot be revived after naloxone is given.
Peterborough Public Health encourages everyone to recognize the signs of an opioid overdose and know what to do:
Nails or lips are blue or purple
I can’t wake the person up
Deep snoring or gurgling sounds
Breathing is slow, unsteady, or has stopped
If an overdose occurs, call 911, give naloxone, and continue to check for breathing. Stay with the person until help arrives. Under Canada’s Good Samaritan Drug Overdose Act, anyone seeking medical help for themselves or someone else who has overdosed will not be charged for possession or use of drugs for personal use. Residents can anonymously report drug poisonings and other adverse drug reactions using the Drug Reporting Tool. Any information shared through the tool supports Peterborough Public Health and community partners in addressing and preventing drug poisoning in the Peterborough area. The Drug Reference Tool can be found by clicking here. SHARE:
