Alongside an Interior Health-wide general toxic drug warning following a surge in overdoses, Penticton is being warned specifically about so-called "crack caviar" that poses an extreme risk in the community.
Despite being sold as crack, the drugs do not contain any form of cocaine or any other stimulant. Instead, samples that have been tested have found fentanyl in the drugs.
Interior Health said the drugs have been connected to multiple recent drug poisonings in the community, and that they pose an extreme risk of overdose and fatal overdose.
Due to being sold as a stimulant, those taking the drugs may not have tolerance or experience in the use of opioids like fentanyl.
The alert in Penticton was issued the same day as a region-wide and non-specific warning by Interior Health, Friday, Sept. 5.
The regional warning noted that overdose calls had begun to surge around Aug. 27. It also cited reports of drugs contaminated with carfentanil, which is magnitudes more dangerous than fentanyl.
To reduce the risk of overdose, Interior Health has made the following suggestions:
* Get the drugs checked before use, which can be done by calling Substance Use Services at 310-MHSU, Penticton Drug Checking at 236-422-1601, and at locations listed at www.drugchecking.ca
* Avoid using different drugs at the same time or using drugs and alcohol together
* Don't use alone or ask someone to check on you
* Start with a small amount and work up
* Use at an overdose prevention site
* If you must use while alone, consider using the Lifeguard app, which can connect you with 911 emergency responders if you overdose.
Drug testing in Penticton is available through ASK Wellness from Monday to Friday.
Interior Health is also sharing information on their Virtual Addiction Medicine clinic, which offers a range of programs and can be accessed over the phone from anywhere in the region.
Visit to request an appointment.
