The Blood Tribe issued a drug alert to the community on April 5, 2023. (File photo: LNN)

By Sarah Jones

Blood Tribe alerting residents of a toxic drug circulating the community

Apr 6, 2023 | 11:30 AM

STANDOFF, AB – The Blood Tribe has issued an urgent drug alert to members of the community.

On Wednesday, April 5, 2023, a notice was sent out on behalf of the Blood Tribe Department of Health (BTDH).

It stated that the drug, known as “down,” is being cut with the power sedative Xylazine, which is reportedly causing prolonged adverse effects and an increased risk of overdose and death.

According to the release, emergency services and law enforcement continue to work overtime dealing with the number of overdoses on the First Nation.

The notice stated, “Xylazine has become a drug of abuse, where it is known by the street name ‘tranq’. The drug is being diverted from stocks used by equine veterinarians and used as a cutting agent for heroin, causing skin sores and infection at injection sites as well as other health issues.”

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According to the alert, Narcan doesn’t properly work due to the strain of the drug, especially since Xylazine is a pharmaceutical used for veterinary use.

The BTDH indicates that they are exploring creative ways to connect with people in the community and encourage individuals to not use alone and carry naloxone.

Symptoms of an overdose can include blue lips or nails, dizziness and confusion, choking and gurgling sounds, drowsiness or difficulty staying awake.

The Blood Tribe advises anyone in an emergency situation to call 911. The full alert is available on the Blood Tribe website.

On March 24, the Blood Tribe issued a similar drugs alert in regard to Xylazine.

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