**** RCMP Media Release
RCMP warn public of suspected fentanyl found in Lunenburg County
Police are warning the public of a new form of suspected fentanyl that was seized as part of an investigation last week in Lunenburg County.
The seized drug is purple and appears to be similar in appearance to play-dough. As part of our standard protocol, the drugs were sent to Health Canada for analysis and a presumptive test has indicated that the substance may be fentanyl. This is the first seizure of suspected fentanyl in Lunenburg County.
Fentanyl is a powerful synthetic opioid drug. A lethal dose for a typical adult can be as little as two milligrams— which is equal to two grains of salt. You should call 911 immediately if you or someone else is exhibiting signs of an opioid overdose.
Common signs of an opioid overdose include:
- Severe sleepiness or the person cannot be woken up
- Breathing is slow or absent
- Snoring or gurgling noises
- Cold, clammy skin
- Lips and fingers are blue or grey
- Pupils are tiny
Naloxone is a temporary antidote for opioid overdoses that buys time to seek medical assistance, but it is not a substitute for medical treatment. If not taken to the hospital, an overdose victim can fall back into the overdose within 30 minutes. Naloxone kits are available free of charge through the Nova Scotia Take Home Naloxone Program. Information on the program and where to get a kit is available at http://www.nsnaloxone.com.
