Southeast Public Health is warning residents in Eastern Ontario after drug checking in Kingston found a dangerous mix of substances in a sample expected to be cocaine. No cocaine was detected.
The sample was tested through Consumption and Treatment Services in Kingston and confirmed by Toronto’s Drug Checking Services. It contained fluorofentanyl, MDMA, medetomidine, ketamine, caffeine and phenacetin.
Health officials say the combination of stimulant, hallucinogenic and depressant drugs greatly increases the risk of serious harm, including overdose and death. Fluorofentanyl, a powerful opioid, can slow or stop breathing.
Justine McIsaac, coordinator of the Kingston Consumption and Treatment Services site, said the result is unusual and concerning for a substance believed to be cocaine.
Southeast Public Health says the finding highlights the unpredictable and toxic unregulated drug supply. The agency urges people not to use alone, avoid mixing substances, go slowly and always carry naloxone.
Anyone who suspects drug poisoning is advised to call 911 immediately.
Story by Alyssa Brush
