Toxic drug warnings issued in the Lower Mainland

SURREY (NEWS 1130) — A toxic drug supply has led to a spike in overdoses in the Lower Mainland in recent days.

Fraser Health has issued a warning for people who use opioids or stimulants.

The drugs can be contaminated with benzodiazepines, which can complicate the overdose response.

The health authority says reports in Maple Ridge show the depressants are connected to a yellow down substance and a black down substance.

According to the BC Centre for Disease Control, benzodiazepines are being found more and more within the drug supply, and can increase the risk of a fatal outcome.

Drug users are urged to never take drugs alone, to start with a low amount, and never to mix the drug with other substances.

If possible, drug users should also get their drugs checked before consuming.

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• B.C. sees record-breaking spike in illicit drug overdoses in January

B.C. has seen a spike in illicit drug toxicity deaths. Since 2016 more than 7,000 people have died.

Since the pandemic began, the BCCDC says overdose deaths have surpassed the number of lives lost in B.C. from car crashes, suicide, and homicides, combined. Fentanyl remains the biggest killer, as the opioid was found in eight out of 10 drug deaths in 2020. The second most common drug found in drug deaths was methamphetamines.

Aug. 31 is International Overdose Awareness Day, and many local community groups have planned events to honour those lives lost, and to advocate for harm reduction, safe supply, and decriminalization.