Ontario Health Officials Warn of New Unapproved Street Drugs

Public health officials in Ontario have issued a province-wide drug alert following the discovery of two new, unapproved substances in the province’s unregulated drug supply. The alert, released on March 15, 2024, by Public Health Sudbury & Districts, is based on findings from Toronto’s Drug Checking Service that identified the substances: N-Propionitrile chlorphine, also known as cyclorphine, and Deschlorodemethyldiazepam.

Both substances pose significant health risks. N-Propionitrile chlorphine is reported to be as potent as, or potentially stronger than, fentanyl, while Deschlorodemethyldiazepam is classified as a benzodiazepine. Alarmingly, neither of these substances has received approval for pharmaceutical use. The health unit emphasized, “The use of these substances significantly increases the risk of poisoning.”

Risks Associated with New Substances

The presence of these unapproved drugs in street-level supplies raises serious concerns about the potential for overdoses. According to health officials, individuals consuming these substances may require multiple doses of naloxone—an opioid overdose reversal medication—to counteract the effects. Furthermore, the unregulated nature of street drugs means they might be adulterated with other dangerous substances, including fentanyl, carfentanil, or xylazine.

In light of these developments, public health officials have outlined several strategies to mitigate the risks associated with drug use. They recommend that individuals carry a naloxone kit, which can be obtained at no cost from various locations, including The Point, the Réseau ACCESS Network, and numerous local pharmacies and hospitals. For those seeking to find nearby locations that offer free naloxone kits, the Government of Ontario’s opioids webpage provides an accessible resource.

Guidance for Preventing Overdose

To further reduce the risk of drug poisoning, officials advise against mixing different substances, starting with lower doses, and avoiding solitary drug use. It is also recommended to have a trusted person present during use or to utilize virtual safe consumption services such as the National Overdose Response Service, which can be reached at 1-888-688-6677.

Recognizing the signs of drug poisoning is crucial. Symptoms of opioid poisoning may include respiratory depression, unresponsiveness, and pinpoint pupils. Conversely, symptoms of benzodiazepine toxicity can last for several hours and might present as profound sedation, confusion, or difficulty breathing.

If drug poisoning is suspected, health officials stress the importance of calling emergency services immediately and staying with the affected person. They advise administering naloxone if available, noting that “it won’t cause harm if opioids aren’t involved.” It is essential to be aware that multiple doses may be necessary, and the individual may not regain consciousness immediately due to ongoing sedation.

Public health officials urge community members to share this alert widely to enhance awareness and reduce the risks associated with drug poisoning. The dissemination of this information is vital in protecting individuals and communities from the dangers posed by these newly identified substances in Ontario’s drug supply.