Original article: https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/newfoundland-labrador/accidental-drug-deaths-newfoundland-2024-1.7440971
Written by: Ryan Cooke, CBC News
The article discusses the rise in drug-related deaths in Newfoundland and Labrador, with cocaine being the leading cause of accidental overdoses in 2024. A total of 74 people died from drug use, with 61 cases deemed accidental. Cocaine contributed to 34 deaths, surpassing other substances like fentanyl (17 deaths) and benzodiazepines (14 deaths).
Jeff and Tammy Bourne, who run the U-Turn Addiction Recovery group, have noticed a post-pandemic surge in drug use, with many people relapsing due to stress and isolation. Chief Medical Examiner Dr. Nash Denic highlighted the dangers of cocaine, emphasizing that unlike opioids, there is no antidote like naloxone to reverse its effects.
A concerning trend is the combination of stimulants and opioids, which was present in 15 deaths. Even when naloxone was administered, it was ineffective due to the presence of cocaine. The Bournes continue to support those struggling with addiction, but the increasing number of deaths is taking a heavy emotional toll on them and their community.