3 suspected overdose deaths prompt warning from Waterloo Region Integrated Drugs Strategy

The Waterloo Region Drug Strategy has issued an alertafter threesuspected overdose deaths in the community between March 19 and 26.

The organization saysKitchener's consumption and treatment site'sdrug checking program recently detected samples of fentanyl combined with "various new fentanyl analogues" likeBromazolam, Xylazine, and Medetomidine or Dexmedetomidine.

The drug strategy adds that the connection between the substances identified and the suspected drug overdose and poisoningsis not clear.

"The unregulated drug supply is unpredictable and unexpected reactions may occur," the drug strategy said in its warning. "Multiple doses of naloxone may be required."

According to data on its website, there have been 306suspected overdose poisonings in Waterloo region so far this year and 11 deaths.