Moncton's fire chief said there is a sudden surge in drug overdoses in the Greater Moncton region of New Brunswick, Canada.
The spike in emergency calls suggests a contaminated drug supply, posing a significant risk to public health and straining frontline emergency resources.
Authorities suspect the increase is linked to veterinary tranquilizers, such as xylazine, being mixed into fentanyl within the illegal drug supply [1, 4]. This combination can complicate rescue efforts and medical treatment for those experiencing an overdose.
Data from the region shows a sharp increase in activity. Between Friday and Monday, there were 65 suspected overdose calls in the greater Moncton region [1]. Specifically, the Moncton fire department responded to 52 overdose cases over the weekend [2].
These figures represent a drastic departure from typical operations. The Moncton fire department usually receives four to five overdose calls per day [3].
To manage the crisis, the fire department is utilizing a rapid response vehicle for overdose calls. This specialized equipment allows responders to reach patients more quickly and provide immediate interventions during the critical early stages of an overdose [5].
The surge has put frontline workers on high alert as they navigate a volatile drug market where the presence of tranquilizers can mask or exacerbate the effects of opioids [2].
“The Moncton fire department usually receives four to five overdose calls per day.”
The emergence of tranquilizer-laced fentanyl in New Brunswick mirrors a dangerous trend seen in other North American urban centers. Because veterinary sedatives like xylazine do not respond to naloxone, the presence of these additives increases the likelihood of severe tissue damage and prolongs the time patients remain unconscious, requiring more intensive emergency interventions and specialized response vehicles.
