Interior Health warns of toxic drug supply in Penticton

Interior Health is warning Penticton residents that high levels of fentanyl and benzodiazepines have been found in the city's illicit drug supply.

A drug alert has been issued for a purple-grey chunky substance being sold as down and fentanyl. The substance has been found to contain high levels of fentanyl and etizolam.

There is a high risk of overdose and fatal overdose associated with this substance, according to the health authority.

Long periods of sleep and drowsiness are likely with users of this substance and naloxone may not wake the person up.

The warning remains in effect until April 1.

Interior Health is urging users to check their drugs first, use at an overdose prevention site, to start with a small amount and space out doses and carry a naloxone kit.

A LifeGuard app is available for those who use alone. 

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