NORTHWEST TERRITORIES (August 30, 2024) – Para-Flurofentanyl was detected in a recent drug seizure, prompting the Chief Public Health Officer to issue a public health advisory about the dangers of illicit drugs in the Northwest Territories. The seizure occurred in late July when an orange/brown powder was taken from a vehicle traveling to Yellowknife on Highway 3. Health Canada reported the results to the Chief Public Health Officer on August 29th, confirming the presence of para-fluorofentanyl, along with fentanyl. Because this drug is not detected in routine toxicology tests, it required specialized testing in a reference laboratory, causing the delay in reporting.
Para-fluorofentanyl is a synthetic opioid created for research purposes in the 1960s but was never intended for human use. It is similar to fentanyl, a powerful drug that is about 100 times stronger than morphine. Para-fluorofentanyl is now appearing as a dangerous illicit drug in Canada and the USA.
Today’s advisory is to inform the public that para-fluorofentanyl has been found in illicit drugs in the Northwest Territories for the first time.
Fentanyl and other related synthetic compounds are extremely toxic and can cause immediate and unexpected overdose, even in frequent users with high drug tolerance. Even small amounts can lead to overdose and death. People who use substances can never be certain if the illicit drugs they buy contain these substances.
The public is warned not to touch or handle any suspect substances. Unintentional exposure to pure fentanyl or its analogues – through touching, ingesting, or inhaling – can cause serious harm, including death.
If you suspect an overdose, call an ambulance or your local health centre. Signs and symptoms of overdose can include the following:
- 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; or
- 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 for help if they witness or experience an overdose.
Residents are reminded that Naloxone kits (opioid reversing agent) are available at all hospitals, health centres and pharmacies in the NWT. Note that naloxone is only effective in the case of an opioid overdose. However, if you are unsure of the substance(s) involved, it’s best to err on the side of caution and administer it. Naloxone is not known to cause any harm in the case of a non-opioid overdose. Opioid overdoses may require repeated doses of naloxone.
People who use drugs should use them with others present, start with small amounts, and should have naloxone nearby and know how to use it. Don’t mix drugs with other drugs, or with alcohol. Mixing substances increases the risk of overdose.
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For more information contact:
Andrew Wind
Manager, Communications
Health and Social Services
Andrew_Wind@gov.nt.ca