The Northwest Territories chief public health officer is warning residents about the illicit drug supply following a suspected overdose-related death.
In a health advisory on Monday, Dr Kami Kandola said she was informed by the NWT Coroner’s Office that it suspects the recent death may have been due to a drug overdose from cocaine mixed with other substances. She said there is a concern the death may have been caused by toxic contaminants.
The release did not indicate where in the territory the death occurred but Kandola said illicit drugs can reach every community in the NWT and there have been ongoing detections of opioids and other toxic drugs.
She cautioned anyone who uses illicit drugs that their supply could contain “potential adulterants.”
Kandola said anyone who does use drugs should do so in the presence of others, start with small amounts, and have naloxone kits with them. She also advised against mixing substances, such as drugs and alcohol, as she said that increases the risk for overdose.
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Symptoms of an overdose can include slow or absent breathing, blue nails and lips, choking, gurgling sounds or snoring, severe sleepiness, cold and clammy skin, and if a person is not moving or can’t be woken up.
In the case of a suspected overdose, it is recommended that people call an ambulance or their local health centre. The federal Good Samaritan Drug Overdose Act prevents people involved in an overdose from being charged for drug possession, with the aim of encouraging people to call for help if they witness or are experiencing an overdose.
Naloxone kits are available at all hospitals, health centres and pharmacies in the NWT.
The NWT Coroner’s Office is continuing its investigation into the recent death.
