Region extends community drug alert after three more deaths
Posted Nov 25, 2025 04:19:21 PM.
Last Updated Nov 25, 2025 04:19:26 PM.
Waterloo Region has extended a Community Drug Alert following three more suspected drug related deaths between Nov. 17 and Nov. 21.
This comes after three suspected drug-related deaths were recorded between Nov. 10 and 12, with a Community Drug Alert issued on Nov.13.
Sanguen Health Centre’s drug checking program found fentanyl samples that were stronger than expected because they contain fentanyl analogues like parafluorofentanyl and medetomidine/dexmedetomidine.
Naloxone, administered to reverse the effects of an opioid like fentanyl, has no effect on non-opioid substances like medetomidine/dexmedetomidine, but should still be administered for a suspected overdose.
The centre also noted that substances that are bluish-green, orange and yellow are of particular concern.
Anyone using is encouraged to keep a naloxone kit nearby and never use alone.
If you suspect someone is having a drug overdose, call 911 immediately.
The Good Samaritan Drug Overdose Act protects everyone at the scene of an overdose from charges of possession.
