Overdose cases increase in Saskatoon with three deaths confirmed 

(Source: Saskatchewan Ministry of Health)

Saskatchewan’s Ministry of Health is warning of a rise in drug overdoses in Saskatoon, with three deaths confirmed since mid-November.

In an updated overdose alert issued Wednesday, Prairie Harm Reduction reported carfentanil, an extremely toxic opioid, has been detected in brown chunks sold as fentanyl.

Two overdoses linked to smoking the substance required naloxone and medical intervention to assist with breathing.

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According to the alert, 39 overdoses have been reported since Nov. 19, along with one death. That follows 104 cases and two deaths the previous week.

The ministry says other agencies may also be responding to additional cases.

The ministry warns there’s a high risk of overdose and death from drugs that may contain carfentanil, other opioids and unknown substances often sold as fentanyl or similar products.

The overdose alert remains in effect until Dec. 3.