Saint John harm reduction group seeing more ‘sedation’ in overdoses

A harm reduction group in Saint John is warning of increased amounts of laced drugs in the city.

A harm reduction group in Saint John is sharing a warning that substances circulating in the community have changed.

“We’re seeing more sedation in the overdoses,” Avenue B executive director Laura MacNeill says. “The main point that we want to get out to the community is that overdoses are starting to look a little bit different.”

MacNeill says the number of overdoses is also increasing.

MacNeil’s team has a drug checking service that allows them to analyze a batch of fentanyl or crack cocaine to see what might be mixed in. However, she says the machine can’t always keep up with the growing evolution of the supply.

Medetomidine, a type of veterinary tranquilizer that is only approved for animal use, is becoming more present in the supply of late, says MacNeill. Unlike opioids, its effects cannot be reversed by Naloxone, which makes its presence alongside fentanyl especially concerning.

When responding to an overdose call, MacNeil says Naloxone is still their best option.

“We can’t say a substance is pure medetomidine, and that’s typically not the case. You’re seeing a lot of different substances and different half-lives, so Naloxone is still the best line of defence,” she says.

Understanding users will still be taking the drugs, MacNeill advises people to start with smaller amounts when using a new batch. She also recommends users avoid using alone and have Naloxone on standby just in case.

The organization says the reality of the drug situation is that it never stops evolving.

“My message is the same as it always is, it’s compassion first,” MacNeill says when asked what the public should know when seeing someone on the street struggling with addiction.

“It isn’t a black and white situation. It is complex and we need multiple ways of addressing it.”

Avenue B is currently operating remotely around the Waterloo Village area of Saint John for those seeking services. The organization will be moving into a new permanent location on Waterloo Street on Nov. 1.

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