Alberta is seeing record numbers of opioid-related emergency medical services (EMS) calls in 2025, with health professionals and clinicians pointing to changes in the province’s toxic drug supply. Multiple reports say the increased call volume reflects more frequent overdose-related emergencies and greater challenges for responders as the potency and composition of available drugs shift. An addictions physician cited in the coverage notes he has observed changes in the drug supply in Edmonton and Calgary compared with what has been seen previously. The reports also describe growing concerns from patients themselves, who worry about the risk associated with the current supply. Together, the articles indicate that EMS and overdose-response efforts face added strain because existing response measures are being tested by variations in drug strength and effects. While the underlying causes of overdose incidents are complex, the shared focus across sources is that more potent or unpredictable drugs are contributing to a higher frequency of opioid-related emergencies and complicating how care is delivered in the field.
Alberta reports record opioid-related EMS calls amid concerns over more potent drug supply
Alberta is seeing record numbers of opioid-related emergency medical services (EMS) calls in 2025, with health professionals and clinicians pointing to changes in the province’s toxic drug supply. Mul...
- Alberta reports a record number of EMS responses to opioid-related events in 2025.
- Health professionals link the increase to changes in the toxic drug supply.
- Clinicians describe a shift in the drug supply in Edmonton and Calgary compared with earlier patterns.
- Patients express heightened concerns about the current drug supply and overdose risk.
- The reported drug potency and variability strain overdose response and on-scene care.
"I'm getting concerns from patients that are worried about the drug supply themselves and this is very different than what we've seen before"
11 hours agoAlberta’s toxic drug supply is putting a strain on the system with the province seeing a record number of emergency medical services (EMS) responses to opioid-related events in 2025. Dr. Monty Ghosh, an addictions physician and associate professor at the University of Alberta, said he’s seen a shift in Edmonton and Calgary’s drug supply which are […]
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