Increased EMS Responses and Unusual Drug Poisonings in the Community

There has been an increase in EMS calls for suspected drug poisonings between January 26 and February 1, 2026. There has also been multiple reports of unusual overdose presentations with use of unregulated fentanyl in the community.

• Unusual overdose symptoms have been reported as: prolonged unresponsiveness, severe disorientation, sudden recovery, requiring 4+ naloxone doses.
• Shifting Drug Supply: The Toronto Drug Checking Service has reported a shift in contamination from benzodiazepines to veterinary tranquilizers like medetomidine and xylazine in fentanyl samples.

Harm Reduction Safer Use Tips

• Careful Use - Test the effect with small amounts first and don’t use alone
  • Call the overdose prevention line: 1-888-688-6677
  • Carry Naloxone - To get a FREE naloxone kit & training call 905-546-4276 or visit www.hamilton.ca/naloxone
• Call 911 for every drug poisoning
• Perform CPR - Push hard, push fast
• Focus on breathing – with prolonged sedation the person may not wake up fully, but may be breathing normally