The Department of Health says it has not been able to identify the substance linked to several toxic drug poisonings in St. Stephen last month.
“Drug checking was conducted in the community as part of these efforts,” the department said in a statement last week. “However, the results did not identify any new substances, and the substances that were tested are not believed to have contributed to the recent cluster of toxic drug poisonings.”
The department said this highlights the unpredictable nature of the unregulated drug supply.
Between Sept. 19 and Oct. 19, ambulances were dispatched to 19 suspected overdose calls. Six of those happened in just 48 hours.
Read more: St. Stephen sees surge in suspected overdose calls
Ambulance New Brunswick reported at the time that local ambulance resources had been temporarily depleted, although resources remained available elsewhere in the border response district.
Public Health also presented to the council in late October, with the regional chief medical officer of health Dr. Kimberly Barker addressing councillors.
“We’re not asking you to install safe injection sites although we might be hopeful,” Barker said. “Obviously we’re respectful of where we’re at tonight. So it’s more talking about what currently exists in St. Stephen and Charlotte County at large, so that we can begin to build on the assets rather than commenting on the deficits.”
Earlier this year, Moncton also experienced a surge in overdose cases linked to a toxic supply.
Read more: Source of St. Stephen toxic drug poisonings remains unknown
Medetomidine, a veterinary sedative, was identified in the toxic drug supply in Moncton, Barker said.
The department said the evolving risk is beyond anyone’s control.
“Which is why it is so important to prioritize harm reduction measures,” the department said in the statement.
Public Health continues to encourage everyone who uses substances to do so with others present. It recommends testing a small amount first if trying a new or unknown substance.
“These actions can reduce the risk of harm and potentially save lives,” the statement said. “Additionally, take-home naloxone kits and drug-checking services are widely available and are critical tools in reducing the risks associated with substance use.”
