London police are asking narcotic users to be extra vigilant about the substances they are using after recent drug seizures revealed the presence of carfentanil, a powerful and potentially deadly opioid.
In a news release issued Thursday, police said results from tests performed by Health Canada on samples from 10 drug seizures in London between March 20 and April 8 were positive for carfentanil. Within that time frame, there was a six-day stretch in which five people died of suspected overdoses in London.
“While we can’t say for certain that carfentanil is the cause of these deaths, we need to make sure that those who use substances are aware this is on our streets and that they take the needed precautions,” said London Police Chief John Pare. “If you know someone who could be exposed, please make sure they have a naloxone kit and that they know the signs of an overdose.”
According to police, carfentanil is 100 times more toxic than fentanyl and 10,000 times more toxic than morphine. Police said users should be aware that, while they may have developed a tolerance for fentanyl, they risk unknowingly ingesting carfentanil and greatly increase their odds of a fatal overdose.
"The results of Health Canada's analysis are a chilling confirmation that we've entered a new phase in the local opioid crisis," said Dr. Chris Mackie, medical officer of health and CEO of the Middlesex-London Health Unit. "Now, more than ever, people who use these substances need to know that more dangerous and potent poisons are on our streets. When they use, it's critical that they're not alone and that Naloxone is close by. "
Free naloxone kits are available through the Middlesex-London Health Unit and local pharmacies.
