A drug alert has been issued to a contaminated substance found in Vernon (image courtesy of Interior Health)

By Liam Verster

Drug Alert

Alert issued for tainted drugs in Vernon

Apr 18, 2024 | 5:50 PM

Interior Health is warning of a contaminated substance found in Vernon.

Lab testing of a substance being sold as “down,” “dope” or “fentanyl” was found to contain Fentanyl or its analogues, as well as Xylazine and Benzodiazapines.

The health authority stated Xylazine use is associated with abscesses and other skin ulcerations that do not heal on their own and can become infected.

Benzodiazapines, meanwhile, negate the effectiveness of Naloxone.

The substance is described as beige or off-white chunks or powder, have high risk of overdose, adding long term use carries heightened risks.

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A drug alert has been issued to a contaminated substance found in Vernon (image courtesy of Interior Health)

Interior Health recommends people have their drugs checked, use at an Overdose Prevention Site, do not mix with other substances, and carry a Naloxone kit and know how to use it.

The warning was issued on April 18th, and remain in place until the 25th.