Drug alert issued in Kelowna

Interior Health (IH) is warning of a potentially dangerous drug found in the Kelowna area.

A drug alert issued by the health authority warns of the purple, chunky and chalky substance.

It is being sold as a downer, and has been found to contain fentanyl and benzodiazepines. It may also contain carfentanil and other unknown substances.

IH warns that this substance has resulted in several drug poisonings in the last week. It poses a high risk of overdose and long periods of unconsciousness.

IH advises people to take steps to prevent overdose by getting their drugs checked at a drug checking location; avoid mixing; use with others around or at an Overdose Prevention Site; start with a small amount; carry naloxone and know how to use it; and get the LifeGuard App.