Drug warning issued for Vernon and Kelowna

Interior Health has issued a Community Drug Warning for Vernon and Kelowna.

The June 3 warning states that methamphetamines containing benzodiazepines is being sold in the cities.

IH also states the contaminated colourless crystal has been found in Kelowna.

Benzodiazepines (benzos) can cause potentially undesirable effects including sleepiness, memory loss, altered thinking, delusions of safety and sobriety, risky behaviours and losing consciousness.

IH stated that multiple doses of benzos will cause more undesirable effects and that the sedation can last minutes to hours. If a person does pass out from meth, it’s advised that someone sober be there to ensure they can breathe and call 911, adding that the person should not be left alone.

Benzos also negate the effectiveness of Naloxone, the overdose reversing tool, but IH still recommends that Naloxone be administered in the event of an overdose.

In order to reduce risks when using any drugs, IH asks that people never use alone, not mix with other drugs or alcohol, have Naloxone on hand and call 911 immediately if something does not feel right.

People are also advised to visit an Overdose Prevention or Harm Reduction site, such as the Cammy LaFleur Street Clinic or the Vernon Downtown Mental Health and Substance clinic for supplies, supervised consumption, drug-checking and more prior to using.