Toxic Drug Alert Issued in Vernon

Toxic Drug Alert Issued in Vernon for Dangerous Substance

Vernon, BC – Interior Health has issued a critical toxic drug alert for Vernon, warning of multiple drugs sold as “Down,” “Dope,” or “Fentanyl” containing medetomidine, a potent non-opioid tranquilizer.

The alert, highlights the severe risks of overdose and death due to the drug’s composition, which also includes fentanyl, fluorofentanyl, and xylazine.

Medetomidine, up to 200 times stronger than xylazine, poses a unique danger as it does not respond to naloxone, the standard overdose reversal drug effective against fentanyl.

This can lead to prolonged and complicated overdose symptoms, including amnesia, extreme sleepiness, suppressed respiration, and dangerous cardiovascular effects.

The alert, in effect until May 7, 2025, underscores that smoking these substances is not safer than injecting.

To stay safer, Interior Health urges users to:

• Test drugs before use by calling or texting 778-212-8611 or visiting the Medicine Shoppe Pharmacy in Vernon (open 9 AM–5 PM daily) for drug checking. Additional locations are available at www.drugchecking.ca.

• Use with others or at an Overdose Prevention Site (Vernon OPS: 250-503-3737).

• Start with a small amount, wait, and space out doses.

• Carry naloxone, despite its limited effectiveness against medetomidine.

• Avoid mixing with other drugs, including alcohol.

• Download the LifeGuard App (lifeguarddh.com) and contact 211 or bc211.ca for local support services.

For more details, refer to the full alert provided by Interior Health. Stay vigilant and prioritize safety.

Toxic Drug Alert Issued in Vernon