SaskatchewanThe Saskatchewan Ministry of Health has issued an overdose alert for Saskatoon and the surrounding area following a spike in overdoses, with fentanyl and benzodiazepines found in samples.Health ministry warns substances may be contaminated with carfentanilCBC News · Posted: Sep 27, 2025 11:32 AM EDT | Last Updated: 4 hours agoPrairie Harm Reduction, Saskatoon’s safe consumption site, has reported multiple overdoses requiring medical attention, according to a drug alert issued Friday. (Chanss Lagaden/CBC)A drug alert has been issued for Saskatoon and surrounding areas by Saskatchewan’s Health Ministry following a spike in overdose cases linked to a contaminated street drug supply. According to Prairie Harm Reduction, Saskatoon’s supervised consumption site, multiple overdoses have been reported daily involving several different substances, said the alert, issued Friday night.Recent test samples have found fentanyl and benzodiazepines, also known as benzos, the alert said. It’s suspected some substances involved in the overdoses may have contained carfentanil. The substances involved look like pink, purple or brown rocks or chunks, according to the alert.The recent overdoses have required emergency medical attention and have been difficult to reverse, even with several doses of naloxone — a medication that temporarily blocks the effects of opioids and can counter the effects of fentanyl, but not benzodiazepines, the alert said.The Ministry of Health is urging people who use drugs to take steps to reduce the risk of overdose, including getting a naloxone kit, calling the National Overdose Response Service at 1-888-688-6677 (NORS) if using alone, and finding locations where you can access drug-checking supplies through the province’s website.The alert will remain in effect until Oct. 3.
Drug alert issued after spike in overdoses in Saskatoon area
