A potentially lethal synthetic drug created for research purposes in the 1960s but was never intended for human use has been seized in the NWT, prompting a public health warning.
Para-flurofentanyl was detected in a recent drug seizure enroute to Yellowknife, prompting the Chief Public Health Officer to issue a public health advisory about the dangers of illicit drugs in the Northwest Territories.
Para-fluorofentanyl is about about 100 times stronger than morphine and now appearing as an dangerous illicit drug in Canada and the USA, stated a GNWT release this morning.
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 para-fluorofentanyl is not detected in routine toxicology tests, it required specialized testing in a reference laboratory, causing the delay in reporting.
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.
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 911 for an ambulance or your local health centre.
Naloxone kits, an opioid reversing agent, are available at all hospitals, health centres and pharmacies in the NWT.
