Southeast Public Health (SEPH) is warning residents after reports of severe substance-related reactions and drug-checking results confirming carfentanil in the unregulated drug supply across Kingston, Frontenac, Lennox & Addington, and Hastings–Prince Edward counties.
Community partners, including Kingston’s Consumption and Treatment Services site, report individuals experiencing unusually heavy sedation and temporary loss of consciousness after using substances believed to be fentanyl. Recent testing has found some of those samples contained carfentanil — a synthetic opioid estimated to be up to 100 times stronger than fentanyl, dramatically increasing the risk of drug poisoning and death. SEPH notes that several doses of naloxone may be required to reverse its effects.
Health officials say the findings highlight the ongoing unpredictability of the unregulated drug supply and are urging people to take precautions. Naloxone should always be given when opioid poisoning is suspected, even if non-opioids may also be involved.
SEPH is advising people who use drugs to avoid using alone, go slow, avoid mixing substances, and carry multiple doses of naloxone. Anyone using alone is encouraged to have someone check in, use supervised consumption services at 661 Montreal Street in Kingston, or call the National Overdose Response Service at 1-888-688-6677 (NORS).
Residents are also encouraged to pick up a free naloxone kit and training, and to call 911 immediately if they suspect a drug poisoning.
