With a virtually endless supply of illegal drug combinations readily available and hitting the streets, it’s no surprise that newer, dangerous adulterates like medetomidine are now posing serious risks to drug users. Health experts believe medetomidine is even more harmful than xylazine, the infamous drug also known as “Tranq,” causing fatal overdoses in several U.S. states. Here’s everything you need to know about medetomidine and the dangers it poses.

What is Medetomidine?

Medetomidine is a synthetic pharmaceutical drug that belongs to the class of drugs known as alpha-2 adrenergic agonists. Veterinarians typically use these drugs as sedatives or analgesics for animals. While a version of medetomidine is also used in human medicine, these uses are rare, reserved for uses such as sedating infants in need of respirators or adults who cannot breathe on their own.

Unfortunately, they have now found their way into the illegal drug market, with reports of cartels using this drug as an adulterant to fentanyl, heroin, and other opioids. An adulterant is a substance that “Cuts” or dilutes a drug, increasing its weight and potency while lowering its cost.

Is it the Same as Xylazine?

Medetomidine is chemically similar to xylazine, another alpha-2 adrenergic agonist commonly abused by drug users. However, according to a toxic adulterant alert by the Center for Forensic Science Research and Education, veterinary studies have shown that medetomidine is a more potent, selective, and specific agonist in the peripheral and central nervous systems than xylazine. This means that it acts more powerfully to suppress pain and induce sedation, making it much more dangerous than xylazine.

Side Effects of Medetominide

Medetomidine works by binding to specific receptors in the brain and spinal cord. These receptors, known as alpha-2 adrenergic receptors, play a crucial role in controlling the body’s responses to stress and pain.

When medetomidine binds to these receptors, it triggers dangerous side effects including:

  • Sedation
  • Analgesia, or inability to feel pain
  • Dry mouth
  • Respiratory depression
  • Hypnotic/anesthetic effects
  • Dilated pupils
  • Hypothermia
  • Twitching
  • Bradycardia, or slowed heart rate
  • Vasoconstriction and rise in blood pressure, followed by prolonged drop in blood pressure

Of these side effects, bradycardia (slowed heart rate) is one of the most concerning. Health experts say that medetomidine decreases the heart rate to as low as the 20s – dangerously low compared to the regular heart rate of 60 to 100 beats per minute. Unfortunately, drug users exposed to medetomidine won’t know of their slowed heart rate until it’s too late. 

Why Is Medetomidine in the News?

States like Michigan are issuing alerts warning citizens of the dangers of medetomidine due to an increasing number of overdose deaths linked to this drug in major cities like Chicago and Philadelphia. Postmortem toxicology reports have shown that medetomidine is present in the systems of individuals who have died from drug overdoses.

But what makes this drug so dangerous and alarming to health experts? Here are some key points to consider:

  • Medetomidine is a potent sedative and is more potent than xylazine.
  • Like xylazine, it cannot be reversed by naloxone, only through immediate medical care.
  • There are currently no test strips available to test for medetomidine in drugs like fentanyl.
  • One of its main side effects is slowed heart rate, which can lead to fatal cardiac events and is difficult, if not impossible, for users to recognize.

With these factors in mind, it’s important to spread awareness about the dangers of medetomidine. Education and harm reduction strategies, such as carrying naloxone and testing drugs for fentanyl, can help prevent overdoses related to this potent sedative. Furthermore, while naloxone can’t reverse the effects of this substance, it can still save lives by reversing the effects of opioids like fentanyl which are often laced with this drug.

Conclusion

Medetomidine is a powerful sedative that is gaining attention due to its involvement in overdose deaths across the United States. With its potency, lack of reversal agents, and difficulty recognizing symptoms, it poses a significant threat to drug users. Increased education and harm reduction strategies can aid in preventing further fatalities related to this drug.

Experts also agree that the best way to combat medetomidine is to address the underlying issue of drug addiction and provide resources for treatment. Sobriety is the only sure way to avoid the dangers of medetomidine and other dangerous substances. If you or someone you know is struggling with drug addiction, speak with one of our consultants for help finding resources and support. Remember, no one has to face addiction alone.