A substance being sold as "down" in Prince Rupert is gaining popularity and causing increased overdoses in the city.
Approximately 15 days ago, Northern Health and First Nations Health Authority issued a toxic drug alert warning the residents of Prince Rupert about the dangers of this drug and provided tips on how to handle it once in contact.
"Overdoses are occurring when drugs are smoked, individuals require multiple doses of naloxone to reverse," said Northern Health.
According to the British Columbia Centre on Substance Use, "down" typically refers to unknown opioids, usually fentanyl or heroin.
They suggest:
- Calling 9-1-1 right away if someone overdoses.
Non-profit Haida Child and Family Group on Facebook shared that overdose signs from "down" can look like slow or no breathing, blue lips, blue nails, choking, snoring sounds, the person not moving, the person can't be woken up, their skin is cold, they have tiny pupils.
- To prevent, recognize, and respond to overdoses, one must receive response training and carry naloxone. Harm reduction supplies, including naloxone, are available at the Prince Rupert Health Unit from Monday to Friday, from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Additionally, naloxone kits are available in the wellness machine at the Prince Rupert Hospital.
- Try not to use drugs alone. Make a plan and tell a buddy who can call for help if needed.
- If you plan to use alone, use the Lifeguard or BeSafe app, available free on the app store or on the Toward the Heart website, or call NORS (National Overdose Response Service) at 1-888-688-6677.
- Know your tolerance. If you are sick or had a time of abstinence or reduced use, use much less.
- When possible, avoid mixing drugs or mixing drugs with alcohol.
- Test a small amount first; start low and go slow.
- Use in an Overdose Prevention Site (OPS) if possible.
- Get your drugs checked.
People can access local support services, including drug checking, sample collection, and harm reduction, at the Prince Rupert Health Unit located at 300 3rd Avenue West or by calling 778-884-0262. The unit is open from 8:30 a.m. to 7:00 p.m., seven days a week.
