Regina’s Newo Yotina Friendship Centre, which operates a supervised injection site, has issued a public warning following recent drug overdoses in the city. Their harm reduction program uses a Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) machine to test street drugs, and has recently detected fentanyl, xylazine, and benzodiazepines in samples. Emile Gariepy, the centre’s harm reduction manager, stated that the mixture is potent and can be difficult to reverse with Narcan. He encourages residents to use the FTIR drug-checking machine and practice safe drug use. Fire Chief Layne Jackson reported 14 overdose incidents in the city in the past week, mainly in the inner city and city centre. The centre’s message is to encourage drug users to be aware of what they are consuming, know what’s inside their drugs, and use them safely. The FTIR drug-checking machine is available for public use, providing education and harm reduction support.
Regina Friendship Centre Issues Warning After Recent Drug Overdoses
