A public health advisory has been issued after the recent detection of a new and potentially dangerous drug combination in the Northwest Territories.
The Office Chief Public Health Officer warns that Desalkylgudazepam — a rare benzodiazepine derivative originally developed in the former Soviet Union — was found mixed with fentanyl in an RCMP seizure.
Following a well-being check on a vehicle between Fort Good Hope and Norman Wells in mid-March, drugs tested positive for fentanyl, crack cocaine, and methamphetamine.
Health Canada confirmed the presence of Desalkylgudazepam in the seized fentanyl. This substance is not typically found through routine toxicology tests and required specialized laboratory testing, causing the delay in reporting.
Mixing benzodiazepines with opioids such as fentanyl may cause the effects of the drug to last longer or to be more potent, and naloxone will not be as effective.
If you suspect an overdose, call 911 or your local health centre.
In 2024, the NWT had five opioid related deaths in four different communities. the OCPHO stated these incidents “showed a concerning shift in the NWTs illicit drug profile.”
