NORTHWEST TERRITORIES (November 19, 2024) – The Chief Public Health Officer is warning the public about the dangers of liquid bromazolam in the illegal drug supply. Bromazolam, a synthetic benzodiazepine not approved for medical use, was detected for the first time in the Northwest Territories on October 15, 2024, in the form of pink liquid. Health Canada reported this to the Chief Public Health Officer on November 15, 2024.
What You Need to Know
- Bromazolam is a potent, unregulated drug.
- Users may not know the strength of what they are taking, increasing the risk of overdose.
- Naloxone will not reverse the effects of bromazolam, but it can still help if opioids are involved. People who use substances can never be certain if the illicit drugs they are using contain these substances.
- Avoid touching or handling any suspicious substances.
Symptoms of Bromazolam Intoxication
Common symptoms:
- Excessive drowsiness
- Loss of balance and coordination
- Partial amnesia
- Difficulty following or participating in conversations
Severe symptoms (especially with high doses or when mixed with opioids):
- Prolonged sedation
- Loss of consciousness
- Breathing difficulties
- Severe respiratory depression, potentially leading to coma or even death.
What to Do in Case of Overdose or Poisoning
If you suspect an overdose or drug poisoning:
- Call 9-1-1, an ambulance or your local health centre immediately.
- Administer a naloxone kit as opioids may be involved.
Signs and symptoms of overdose:
- Breathing will be slow or absent
- Lips and nails are blue
- Person is not moving
- Person is choking
- Gurgling sounds or snoring
- Severe sleepiness
- Person can’t be woken up
- Skin feels cold and clammy.
The Good Samaritan Drug Overdose Act protects people involved in an overdose from being charged for possession of a controlled substance. This law encourages anyone to call 9-1-1 for help if they witness or experience an overdose.
Safer Use:
- Know what you are taking: Be cautious if something feels stronger than expected and seek help immediately.
- Avoid using alone: Use substances with someone nearby who can help in an emergency.
- Start small and slow: Take a small dose and wait before taking more.
- Keep naloxone on hand: Know how to use it.
- Do not mix substances: Avoid combining drugs or mixing them with alcohol, which increases the risk of overdose.
Relevant links
Media Contact
Andrew Wind
Manager, Communications
Health and Social Services
Andrew_Wind@gov.nt.ca