Street drug supply changes weekly in Ottawa, say outreach workers | CBC News

Advocates and outreach workers say it’s difficult to address the growing number of overdoses in Ottawa because of a toxic drug supply that changes weekly.

“We definitely are seeing more emergencies and toxicity events,” said Doris Payer with the Hintonburg Community Association. “The pandemic hasn’t helped and the toxic drug supply isn’t helping.”

A recent test of street drug samples showed a number of dangerous substances mixed in with opioids, which included Bromazolam, according to the Somerset West Community Health Centre.

The drug often proves fatal because it depresses the respiratory system.

The presence of power animal tranquilizers such as medetomidine and xylazine have also been discovered.

“That changes weekly and that’s what makes it a little difficult sometimes to deal with the overdose problem,” said outreach worker Dave McEvoy.

He said it can take time to determine the best course of treatment for someone suffering an overdose because it’s not always clear what substances might be in their system.

Naloxone doesn’t reverse these overdoses, though Ottawa Public Health does recommend using it anytime someone is overdosing in case an opioid is present.

Reducing stigma part of the solution: advocates

While there are a number of support programs, stigma around drug use means there aren’t enough of them, according to the manager of clinical practice with Rideauwood Addictions and Family Services.

“Substance use disorders are across the board an issue that are often highly, highly stigmatized. It keeps people away from getting the supports they need,” said Amanda Neilson.

Neilson added that this means users are left unhoused, in poverty and even criminalized.

“If we understand this as a health issue, that this is a result of trauma, then all of a sudden our ability to be more compassionate, more understanding and to reach out to supports [grows].”

Payer said that was also one of the reasons behind an information session in Hintonburg Thursday.  

“Substance use is something that’s happening in the community,” he said. “It’s our neighbours. It’s our families.”