Toxic Drug Alert: Northern Health Region

Press Release

September 23, 2025

Northern Health and FNHA are issuing a Drug Alert for the Northern Region. A purple paste/sample sold as ‘down’ has tested positive for fentanyl, benzos and medetomidine. This sample has been linked to overdose events.

Medetomidine is a non-opioid sedative that can cause an increase in overdose and fatal overdose, complex drug poisoning which involves deep and prolonged sedation and very low or no pulse.

Overdose symptoms may require multiple doses of naloxone or may not respond to naloxone.

Smoking is not safer than injecting.

Be cautious when using substances and follow the safety tips below:

• Get training to prevent, recognize, and respond to an overdose; carry naloxone
• Don’t use alone. Make a plan and use with a trusted person who can call for help if needed.
• If you plan to use alone, use the Lifeguard app available free on the app store or on Toward the Heart website or call NORS (National Overdose Response Service) 1-888-688-6677 (NORS).
• Know your tolerance. If you are sick or had a time of abstinence or reduced use, use much less.
• Don’t mix drugs or mix drugs with alcohol.
• Test a small amount first and go slow.
• Use in an OPS if possible
• Access fentanyl drug checking where available (OPS sites).
• Call 9-1-1 or your local emergency number right away if someone overdoses.

Local overdose prevention sites (OPS)

For information on your local OPS hours, visit the Northern Health OPS webpage.

IHT5