Interior Health warning of toxic drug supply in Kelowna, Kamloops

Interior Health is warning users of a toxic drug supply in Kelowna and Kamloops that increases the risk of overdose.

A drug alert issued by Interior Health, Nov. 4, announced drugs are being found in Kelowna with high amounts of fentanyl.

Pink and purple fentanyl, which is chalky and chunky in texture, is found to be containing 10 to 15% benzos – also a higher-than-normal concentration.

READ MORE: Vernon woman's 'mid-level' fentanyl dealing nets her 3 years jail

Users risk a greater chance of overdosing, according to Interior Health.

In Kamloops and the surrounding area, "multiple" fatal and non-fatal overdoses have been reported, according to an announcement from Nov. 3, which does not identify any particular batch of drugs. 

Keep in mind that smoking is not safer than injecting, Interior Health advised. It also reminded users that overdoses caused by benzos can’t be reversed by naloxone, there are ways to get drugs tested locally, and to start low and go slow to minimize the risk of overconsumption.

Both alerts are in effect until Nov. 11.

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