Calgary is experiencing a rise in overdoses due to a more diverse mix of substances in the illicit drug supply. Researchers at the University of Calgary have found over 11 different substances in samples collected over the past three months, including fentanyl, carfentanil, methamphetamines, ketamine, and other potent opioids and tranquilizers. Dr. Monty Ghosh, a researcher at U of C, emphasized the variability in the drug samples, making overdoses more challenging to treat. The unpredictable nature of the drug supply poses a significant risk to users, as naloxone may not be as effective against substances combined with tranquilizers or benzodiazepines.
Multiple organizations in Calgary have reported an increase in overdoses in recent months. The Calgary Drop-In Centre (DI) responded to approximately 1,300 overdoses in 2025, surpassing this number by mid-April this year. The DI has noted a concerning trend of a more toxic substance mix, including the veterinary tranquilizer medetomidine, found in samples from the center. The increase in complex overdoses has raised anxiety among clients about the safety of the drug supply.
Other agencies, such as BeTheChangeYYC and Alpha House, have also observed a surge in overdoses attributed to varying levels of toxicity in Calgary’s drug market. Emergency medical services and the Calgary Fire Department have seen a significant uptick in opioid-related incidents and substance-related calls, respectively, compared to previous years.
The democratization of drug manufacturing has contributed to the diverse substance mix in Calgary. Dr. Ghosh highlighted the accessibility of precursor substances worldwide, allowing individuals to produce and distribute drugs independently. With the closure of supervised consumption sites, the safety of drug users has become a concern, emphasizing the need for early alert systems to notify users and healthcare providers of changes in the drug supply promptly.
While overdose numbers at some shelters have stabilized, researchers remain vigilant about the evolving drug supply’s impact on the city. The unpredictability of the drug market poses a continuous threat, requiring proactive measures to address the risks associated with the changing landscape of illicit substances.