Community Drug Alert - Increase in overdoses/drug poisonings

The Overdose Monitoring Alert and Response System (OMARS) is issuing a Community Drug Alert for Waterloo Region.

From May 23rd – May 26th, there has been an increased number of reported overdoses/drug poisonings with 35 reported cases in total and 2 suspected drug-related deaths.

The unregulated drug supply is unpredictable, drug overdoses/poisonings may require more naloxone and unexpected reactions may occur.

The Kitchener CTS Drug Checking Program has detected samples of Fentanyl, combined with various Fentanyl analogues, Benzodiazepines (including Bromazolam and Xanax), and Xylazine. Colours of concern were red, orange, dark pink, green, and grey. While a connection between the substances identified and the reported drug overdoses/poisonings is not known, details on these substances are included for your information.

For more information, including specific information on substances detected by the Kitchener CTS Drug Checking Program, check the full Community Drug Alert, May 28, 2024 release.