Substance Use
Patients should always be asked, as part of their general history, whether they vape or use drugs from any source (legal or illegal). When engaging patients:
- Screen all patients for substance use.
- Use motivational interviewing techniques.
- Use brief intervention for those at risk or experiencing substance use disorder.
For more information on engaging clients who use substances, review the Registered Nurses Association of Ontario’s Clinical Best Practice Guidelines. To learn more about the diagnosis and treatment of patients with substance use disorders and earn Continuing Professional Development credits, consider completing the Addiction Care Treatment Online Course from the University of British Columbia.
For more information to provide to patients, visit our drugs page.
Addictions and harm reduction services in KFL&A |
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Street Health Centre (115 Barrack Street)
HIV/AIDS Regional Services (844a Princess Street) Addictions and Mental Health Services KFL&A (552 Princess Street, Kingston; 70 Dundas Street East, Napanee)
Youth Diversion, Kairos Program (559 Bagot Street) One Roof Kingston Youth Hub (426 Barrie Street, Kingston) Hotel Dieu Hospital Early Psychosis Intervention Program (166 Brock Street) Harbour Light Residential Treatment Program (562 Princess Street) |
Etizolam |
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Etizolam is a benzodiazepine analog which has been implicated in several overdose deaths in KFL&A, and in Ontario. Benzodiazepines are CNS depressant drugs used to treat anxiety disorders, panic attacks and sleep or seizure disorders. Etizolam may be cut into other drugs such as fentanyl and Oxycodone. Poisoning and overdoses can present like an opioid overdose and include:
Severe overdose may result in coma, respiratory failure, hypotension, and hypothermia. Naloxone will not reverse the effects of Etizolam. The peak effect of the drug is approximately 3 hours, with an approximate half life of 6 hours. If an overdose with Etizolam is suspected, perform typical resuscitation as required. Concomitant opioid overdose may be present, as such, it is reasonable to administer Naloxone according to your clinical judgement. There is one case study which suggests that Flumazenil can also be used to reverse the effects of Etizolam. Encourage clients who use drugs to
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Naloxone kits |
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Naloxone is a medication that can temporarily reverse an opioid overdose. Free take home naloxone kits and training are available at the following locations. No OHIP card or ID required. General public
Local pharmaciesWhere to get free naloxone kits in Ontario pharmacies Partner agenciesThe following organizations distribute kits via their programs and services:
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Opioid prescribing |
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The following resources provide guidance on opioid prescribing in Canada: |