A dangerous drug has been detected for the first time in the NWT, says the Chief Public Health Officer in a Tuesday advisory.
It’s called Bromazolam, a synthetic benzodiazepine that is not approved for medical use. It was found in the form of pink liquid on October 15, and was reported to the health department a month later.
Symtoms of Bromazolam intoxication includes excessive drowsiness, loss of balance and coordination, partial amnesia, and difficulty following or participating in conversation.
In the severe cases, the drug can lead to prolonged sedation, loss of consciousness, breathing difficulties, coma or even death.
“Naloxone will not reverse the effects of bromazolam, but it can still help if opioids are involved,” states the advisory.
The Chief Public Health Officer ask the public to avoid touching or handling any suspicious substances, and call 911 immediately if an overdose or drug poisoning is suspected.
