The Regina Police Service is warning the public about the extreme danger posed by drug consumption in light of two recent deaths, believed to be the result of drug overdoses. Although the results of toxicology tests are not yet available, the Regina Police Service and the Office of the Chief Coroner have reason to suspect the deaths were caused by fentanyl.
Fentanyl is an extremely potent and highly addictive drug. While it has an important use as a prescribed medication to manage pain, the illegal use of this drug is very dangerous and its effects are unpredictable. Fentanyl has been confirmed, by the Office of the Chief Coroner, in 22 overdose drug deaths in Saskatchewan in 2015.
In the drug trade, Fentanyl has been mixed with other drugs like heroin or cocaine. Overdoses have occurred where individuals were not aware they were consuming fentanyl. Two milligrams of fentanyl (about the size of four grains of salt) is enough to kill an adult. The short-term effects of taking this drug can include: drowsiness, constipation, nausea/vomiting, headaches, dizziness, difficulty breathing, euphoria, itching and sweating. The signs of fentanyl (and other opioid drug) overdose include: weak breathing, drowsiness, cold/clammy skin, pinpoint pupils, collapse and coma. Anyone observing someone presenting these symptoms should call 9-1-1 immediately.
In recent weeks there have been two deaths in Regina believed to have been caused by drug overdoses. Police were dispatched, on November 8th, to a residence on Cameron Street, for the discovery of a deceased female. Just over a week later, on November 17th, police were sent to a residence on McCarthy Boulevard for the discovery of a deceased male. Both police and the Office of the Chief Coroner are investigating these deaths. At this time, they are suspected to be drug overdoses, therefore not criminal deaths, but the possibility of fentanyl involvement makes it extremely important to focus the awareness of the Regina public now on the risks associated with the use of any illicit drugs but, most importantly, the increased risk associated with illegal fentanyl trafficking and use.
Now, more than ever, pay attention to the dangers of illegal substance abuse.
– Drug dealers don’t care about the well-being of their customers. The customer never knows what they’re getting; there is no “quality control”.
– If you don’t take drugs, don’t start.
– If you are struggling with addiction, see a health professional.
– Parents: have these conversations with your children. Maintain a calm, two-way conversation. Try not to lecture, threaten or judge them. Discuss peer pressure and ways they can say no to drugs.
For more information on opioids, the side effects and the risks, please visit: http://healthycanadians.gc.ca/healthy-living-vie-saine/substance-abuse-toxicomanie/prescription-abuse-abus-ordonnance/opiods-opiodes-eng.php?utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc_en&utm_content=group8creative4&utm_campaign=ppdu_16&gclid=CLnl74etutACFU1WDQodVfkMnA
As always, anyone who has information that could assist police in drug investigations is encouraged to contact the Regina Police Service at 306-777-6500 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).
To leave a tip or information on the drug line call 306-777-8602.