Northern Health has issued a toxic drug alert dating back to Aug. 22, warning of a potentially fatal substance linked to overdoses in the community.
According to the health authority, the drug is a pressed pill sold as oxycodone. It has tested positive for fluorofentanyl — a fentanyl analogue — and bromazolam, a benzodiazepine.
Northern Health said the substance has been associated with a recent spike in overdoses in the area. The alert remains in effect until Sept. 5.
This warning follows a previous advisory issued just four days earlier, which cautioned the public about a light purple, pebble-like substance that tested positive for carfentanil. That drug was also potentially linked to increased overdoses and abnormal symptoms.
To help reduce the harms of toxic drugs, Northern Health has shared the following resources available in Prince George:
Prince George Needle Exchange
- Address: 277 George St., Prince George, BC, V2L 1R1
- Phone: 250-645-3810
- Hours: Monday to Sunday, 8:15 a.m. to noon and 1:15 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. (Overdose Prevention Site open until 6:30 p.m.)
- Nursing services by appointment: Monday to Sunday, 8:15 a.m. to noon; open clinic hours from 1:15 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.
Mobile harm reduction supplies (Wellness or Outreach Truck)
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Hours: Monday to Sunday, 7 p.m. to 11 p.m.
Two Doors Down
- Address: 1126 Third Ave., Prince George, BC
- Hours: Tuesday to Saturday, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.; Tuesday to Friday, 5 p.m. to 9 p.m.
- Sample drop-off available during OPS hours
- Drug checking available Tuesday to Saturday, noon to 4 p.m.
People who use drugs are encouraged to download the Lifeguard app if they plan to use alone, or visit the Toward the Heart website at towardtheheart.com.
