Toxic Drug supply recently detected in Fort St. John

The local RCMP are advising the public of the presence of highly toxic drugs currently being distributed and used in the area.

Fort St. John RCMP have recently identified the presence of a potent synthetic opioid called Isotonitazene, discovered in counterfeit Oxycodone tablets. This substance is known to be as powerful—if not more so—than fentanyl.

Between April 3 and April 9, Fort St. John RCMP responded to three sudden death incidents, all of which are believed to be consistent with opioid overdoses according to the media release.

Northern Health issued a Drug Advisory for the entire Northern Health region on March 27, warning about round white pills being sold as Oxycocet that were found to contain Isotonitazene. This powerful synthetic opioid cannot be detected using fentanyl test strips. The advisory remained in effect until April 10.

“Because of the way ingredients for pills are mixed, the potency of each street pill can vary significantly,” said Constable Chad Neustaeter, Media Relations Officer for the Fort St. John RCMP. “The pills are like making chocolate chip cookies, some cookies have 6 chocolate chips, others have 16 which, when it comes to fentanyl or synthetic opiates, can be fatal.”

The Fort St. John RCMP are reminding individuals who use drugs to avoid using alone and to carry a Naloxone (Narcan) kit. These life-saving kits are available for free at the Salvation Army and several local clinics.

Dr. Bonnie Henry, Provincial Health Officer, and Josie Osborne, Minister of Health, released statements on April 14, acknowledging the ninth anniversary of toxic-drug crisis being declared a public health emergency in British Columbia.

“Today marks nine years since B.C. declared the toxic-drug crisis a public health emergency. Since that time, we have lost thousands of people to poisoned drugs, each one a valued member of their community. Each and every loss leaves lasting grief for the people who knew and loved them,” said Josie Osborne. “This crisis continues to have a devastating impact throughout our province, from families and communities to the front-line workers who provide care, support and compassion in the face of unimaginable loss.”

Dr. Bonnie Henry said this anniversary was a reminder of the ongoing tragic impact of the toxic-drug crisis. “The increasing toxicity and unpredictability of the drugs on the street also remind us that we must continue to have the courage to be innovative and unwavering in our approach to this public health crisis,” said Dr. Henry.

“While we have seen some glimmers of hope in this past year with a decline in deaths, there remains much to do to ensure there are supports when needed at every point in a person’s journey.”

For those struggling with addiction, support is available through the B.C. Alcohol and Drug Information and Referral Service Line at 1-800-663-1441, where you can find information on local services.

Additionally, you can connect with a mental health clinician at the Fort St. John Women’s Resource Society, located at 9908 and 9912 96th Ave, Fort St. John, BC.