With the report of carfentanil in Owen Sound, the Grey Bruce Health Unit urges precautions to prevent fatal overdose including the use of Naloxone or Narcan.

Naloxone will temporarily reverse the effects of an opioid overdose. Naloxone is safe, has no potential for abuse and can save lives. Opioids include drugs like morphine, fentanyl and carfentanil.

Signs of an opioid overdose are:

· Soft breathing or no breathing

· Snoring or gurgling sound

· Pinpoint pupils

· Blue lips, nails, or skin

· Cold clammy skin

· Limp body

· Doesn't respond to shouting

"If you or someone you know uses drugs, get a Naloxone kit." says Public Health Nurse Lindsay Cook. Naloxone is available at the Grey Bruce Health Unit, no appointment necessary Monday to Friday from 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. It is also available from some local pharmacies. To find out more: www.ontario.ca/Overdose

An overdose is a medical emergency. It is important that 911 is called during an overdose as Naloxone is very short acting once given. A person that has overdosed and treated with Naloxone is at high risk of going back into an overdose and needs medical attention. The Good Samaritan Drug Overdose Act provides some legal protection for individuals who seek emergency help during an overdose.

source: media release, Grey Bruce Health Unit