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Alberta's opioid crisis response

How Alberta is responding to the increase in fentanyl- and opioid-related deaths in our province.

Services and information

How to get help

There are many reasons someone may want help with their substance use, and there are many ways to be helped.

Help doesn't mean you have to stop using if that is not your goal. You don't have to be addicted to opioids, or any substances, to think about getting help.

If you use drugs, don't use alone. Call 911 if you suspect an overdose.

  • Stop ODs
    Learn how to reduce the risk and prevent opioid overdoses.
  • Get Naloxone
    Naloxone can temporarily reverse an opioid overdose if it's given right away. Kits are free at sites across Alberta.
  • Find treatment
    Treatment options and resources for patients, family, community agencies and health care professionals.

If you suspect an overdose

1. Call 911 if you or someone you're with used drugs and have any of these symptoms:

  • breathing is slow or not breathing at all
  • blue nails and/or lips
  • choking or throwing up
  • making gurgling sounds
  • skin is cold and clammy
  • won't wake up

2. Follow the SAVE ME steps and naloxone instructions

  • initiate rescue breathing
  • use naloxone injection kit or Narcan® nasal spray

Canada's new Good Samaritan law provides some legal protection for people who experience or witness an overdose and call 911 for help.

What we're doing

The opioid crisis in Alberta is a public health crisis. It's a complex issue that requires a multifaceted approach including awareness, treatment, harm reduction and addressing organized crime. We're working with partners to reduce harms and deaths related to opioid use.

  • Opioid emergency response commission
    A dedicated emergency commission to help Alberta respond to the opioid crisis.
  • Opioid reports
    Reporting the prescribing patterns, use/misuse, drug overdoses and deaths related to fentanyl and opioids in Alberta.

Translated resources

These printable opioid resources are available in 10 languages.

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