Lakelands Public Health has issued a drug poisoning alert for the Peterborough region, warning of a yellow or beige substance being sold as 'down.'
The drug is linked to an increase in overdoses and prolonged sedation. Officials say there is a high risk of overdose and death.
Naloxone can reverse fentanyl effects but may not counteract tranquilizers or sedatives in the substance. Symptoms can include heavy sedation, blackouts, low heart rate, low blood pressure, or comas even after naloxone restores breathing.
Health officials urge people not to use drugs alone, carry multiple naloxone kits, and use drug checking strips. The Good Samaritan Act protects those helping in an emergency.
The warning remains in effect until May 21.