A drug/overdose alert was sent out by the Saskatchewan Ministry of Health on Thursday morning following an overdose in Regina.

A sample from the incident was tested at the Newo-Yotina Friendship Centre and contained dangerous levels of fentanyl and benzodiazepines. Six doses of naloxone and transport to the hospital were required.

The alert indicated that sufficient naloxone will reduce the effects of fentanyl and other opioids, but will not reverse the effects of benzodiazepines.

This combination of opioids may be smoked, swallowed, sniffed and/or injected. Using these substances carries a high risk of overdose and death. The combined substances look like pinkish purple chunks and is being sold as fentanyl.

Use of illegally acquired drugs poses health risks, including overdose and death. Some risks can be reduced, but not eliminated, by:

• Getting a Take Home Naloxone Kit. Call HealthLine 811 to find locations.
• Calling the National Overdose Response Service at 1-888-688-NORS (6677) if you are alone.
• The Good Samaritan Drug Overdose Act protects individuals who seek emergency help during an overdose or who witness an overdose.
• Finding where to access drug checking supplies and/or services through www.saskatchewan.ca/overdose.
• Sharing this alert and displaying the attached poster.
• For information on overdoses and additional resources, go to www.saskatchewan.ca/overdose.
• Signing up for Sask Drug Alerts by texting JOIN to 1-833-352-7233