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Saskatchewan’s health ministry is warning the public about dangerous drugs following a death in Swift Current.
According to the ministry, Hutch Ambulance has reported multiple suspected overdoses and one suspected overdose death linked to drugs sold in the area.
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According to the ministry, drugs sold as “molly” (also known as MDMA or ecstasy) in the area contain a known opioid. While naloxone has been effective in reversing overdoses caused by the drugs, repeated doses are needed.
“There has been one death from overdose, and surviving cases required hospitalization,” the ministry said in a statement.
“There is a higher risk of overdose and death from drugs in the region.”
According to data from the Saskatchewan Coroners Service, the province has seen 38 confirmed drug toxicity deaths this year (as of May 1), along with 82 more suspected deaths, for a total of 120 deaths linked to drugs.
While taking illegally acquired drugs is always dangerous, the ministry advised the public that the risks can be reduced by getting a take-home naloxone kit, and calling the National Overdose Response Service if you are using drugs alone.
“The Good Samaritan Drug Overdose Act protects individuals who seek emergency help during an overdose or who witness an overdose,” the ministry noted.
Drug checking supplies and services are also available and can help mitigate the risks, the ministry added.
Saskatoon seeing spike in overdoses
The warning in Swift Current follows an overdose alert issued for Saskatoon last week.
In the Bridge City, the ministry said there were 30 overdoses in a three-day period from May 9-11.
While the ministry warned of dangerous drugs making the rounds in Saskatoon, it said the exact substances behind the recent rash of overdoses are not known.
“Recent testing indicates multiple substances are circulating in the community,” the ministry said in the news release.
More information on overdoses and drug safety can be found on the provincial government’s website.
