Increased risk for individuals in close proximity to the inhalation or heating/cooking of unregulated fentanyl
Ottawa Public Health has received reports of people feeling symptoms of headache, dizziness, nausea, and vomiting after being in close proximity to people inhaling or heating what is believed to be unregulated fentanyl. It has been reported that there is a strong smell when the suspected substances have been heated for use.
Symptoms appear to start immediately after potential exposure and resolve within 24-72 hours. We are currently seeking samples of suspected substances for further analysis.
Ottawa Public Health is issuing this alert out of an abundance of caution to ensure that individuals are aware of this added risk in addition to the risk of overdose. Avoid inhaling drugs indoors and in unventilated/confined spaces. The risk of overdose remains high, and we continue to urge people not to use alone.
If you do experience any of these reported symptoms, please see medical care. And as always in the event of a suspected overdose or other medical emergency call 9-1-1. We would ask that if you have experienced these symptoms you bring a sample for drug checking - drug checking services are available at Sandy Hill Community Health Centre and Ottawa Inner City Health’s Consumption and Treatment Service.
How to respond to an overdose:
In all cases of suspected overdose, call 9-1-1 right away for emergency help.
Give naloxone if you have it. While naloxone will not have an effect on benzodiazepines or xylazine, it can temporarily reverse the effects of an opioid overdose and can be safely given to people who have taken non-opioid drugs (like benzodiazepines or xylazine).
Perform chest compressions and/or rescue breathing, or CPR as needed.
Stay with the person until emergency help arrives. The Good Samaritan Drug Overdose Act provides some legal protection for people seeking emergency support during an overdose.
Individuals who use drugs are reminded:
Carry naloxone – Naloxone is a medication that can temporarily reverse the effects of an opioid overdose. Naloxone kits are available at no cost in Ontario. Please visit StopOverdoseOttawa.ca to find out how to get a naloxone kit.
Don’t use alone – A buddy system is safer than using alone. If you are using with someone else, don’t use at the exact same time.
If you do use alone – Tell someone before you use. Have a safety plan which includes having someone come check on you. You can also call the National Overdose Prevention Line at 1-888-688-NORS (6677) or connect with an anonymous virtual harm reduction supporter via the Brave App.
If you choose to use – Consider visiting one of the four Supervised Consumption and Treatment Services [ottawapublichealth.ca] locations in Ottawa.
Get your drugs checked before using- walk-in drug checking services are available at Sandy Hill Community Health Centre and for registered clients of Ottawa Inner City Health’s Consumption and Treatment Service.
Don’t mix drugs – Using more than one drug at a time puts you at a higher risk of overdose.
Know your tolerance – Your risk of overdose increases if you are a new user or haven't used in more than three days.
Go slow – The toxicity of unregulated drugs is unpredictable