Toxic drug alert: Prince George

January 16, 2023 Northern Health & First Nations Health Authority Health Alert There has been an increase in overdose events in the community of Prince George. The reported substance is known as “down” and is a light purple/lilac colour and found in powder/chunk form. The reported substance tested positive for both benzos and xylazine and is causing overdose and heavy sedation. The substance is dangerous if unknowingly ingested. Fentanyl test strips are not working when testing this substance.

Substances move throughout our region and may be present in your community so please share this alert widely and use with caution following the harm reduction messages below.

For your safety

• Get overdose prevention, recognition, and response training; carry naloxone

• Don’t use alone. Make a plan and tell a buddy who can call for help if needed

• If you plan to use alone, use the Lifeguard or BeSafe app available free on the app store or on Toward the Heart website

• Know your tolerance. If you are sick or had a time of abstinence or reduced use, use much less

• When possible, avoid mixing drugs or mixing drugs with alcohol

• Test a small amount first and go slow

• Use in an Overdose Prevention Site (OPS) if possible (see Prince George locations listed below)

• Get your drugs checked at Two Doors Down (6 days a week, 10 am to 2 pm Wednesday to Saturday, and 4 pm to 8 pm Tuesday to Sunday, closed Mondays; Appointments can be made outside these hours by texting or calling 250-301-3285)

• Call 9-1-1 or your local emergency number right away if someone overdoses

Local overdose prevention site (OPS)

• Two Doors Down, 1126 3rd Ave, Prince George Hours: Tuesday to Saturday, 6 am to 11 am and 6 pm to 11 pm

• Northern Health Needle Exchange and Harm Reduction Clinic (OPS/APP), 277 George St, Prince George Hours: Monday to Saturday, 1 pm to 6 pm

Thanks to https://stories.northernhealth.ca/