(Image Credit: Interior Health)
By Elora McCormack
Toxic drugs

Toxic drug alert issued for Merritt

Aug 20, 2026 | 2:41 PM

MERRITT, B.C. — Interior Health is warning Merritt residents to be aware of toxic drugs circulating in the community.

The substance — sold as down, dope, tranq, or fentanyl — is described as light green chunks, pebbles or powder.

Interior Health (IH) said the warning comes after a sample was found to contain cychlorphine and medetomidine, and has been linked to multiple overdoses.

“Cychlorphine is a potent synthetic opioid. It is thought to be approximately 10x the strength of fentanyl and longer lasting,” said IH.

“Medetomidine is a very strong non-opioid tranquilizer — much stronger than xylazine (200x). It can be potentially dangerous to the heart.”

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IH officials said the drug carries a very high risk of overdose.

“Cychlorphine, fluorofentanyl, medetomidine and benzodiazepines can slow or stop breathing, leading to life threatening effects. Nausea, vomiting and sweating are also possible,” said IH.

“Always give naloxone if opioid poisoning is suspected and call 911.”

Drug samples can be checked between 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. at ASK Wellness in Merritt at 2196 Quilchena Avenue.

More details can be found on Interior Health’s website.

by Elora McCormack

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