A warning has been put out by Peterborough Public Health after a disturbing end to the weekend.
On Sunday, health officials say there were four drug-related poisonings that were treated at the PRHCs emergency department.
This is presumed to be the result of a product that may contain benzodiazepines. A benzodiazepine-related overdose may last for hours and make it hard to wake up an individual.
If you suspect an individual is experiencing a drug poisoning, give naloxone. This may improve breathing, but
may not help the individual regain consciousness.
If you inject, inhale, snort or ingest drugs, Peterborough Public Health recommends that you:
o Drug poisoning is possible from inhaling drugs.
o Never share supplies. Avoid using damaged or modified pipes/needles.
o Don’t use drugs alone. Visit the Consumption Treatment Services site at 220 Simcoe St., open
9:30am-8:00pm, 7 days/week.
o If using with a friend, do not use at the exact same time.
o Have a plan – Ask someone to check on you or call the National Overdose Response Service 1-888-
688-6677.
o Carry a naloxone kit. Keep it visible and close by.
o Avoid mixing drugs.
o Test your drug by using a small amount first.
o Call 911 immediately if someone cannot be resuscitated after naloxone is administered.
Peterborough Public Health encourages everyone to recognize the signs of opioid overdose and know what to
do:
o Skin is cold and clammy
o Fingernails or lips are blue or purple
o Body is very limp
o Can’t wake the person up
o Deep snoring or gurgling sounds
o Breathing is very slow, erratic or has stopped
o Pupils are very small
A reminder for the public; Under Canada’s Good Samaritan Drug Overdose Act, anyone who seeks medical help for themselves or for someone else who has overdosed, will not be charged for possessing or using drugs for personal use.
