What to know about medetomidine, the latest sedative found in illicit Indy drug supplies
INDIANAPOLIS — Traces of a potent anesthetic have been detected in illicit drugs on the streets of Indianapolis, prompting health officials to raise the alarm.
Medetomidine, a powerful animal tranquilizer, has emerged as one of the latest substances found mixed with other common street drugs.
The drug has recently been cited as the likely culprit behind overdose spikes in Chicago. In Indianapolis, health officials have alerted the community the drug is now being found in local supplies.
More: Is your Indy neighborhood at risk for overdose? Sign up for these text alerts to find out
Here’s what to know:
What is medetomidine?
Medetomidine is a surgical veterinary anesthetic used for both small and large animals. It is in the same drug class as xylazine, another veterinary tranquilizer, known as the “zombie drug."
It is not an opioid.
Similar to xylazine use, medetomidine is most commonly used to mix in samples of fentanyl, heroin and cocaine.
The amount of medetomidine tested from overdose cases and drug seizures across the country has shown minor traces, according to a report by the Center for Forensic Science Research & Education, but remains “of toxicological concern.”
Why is it dangerous?
Medetomidine has similar effects to xylazine, including slowing the heart rate (bradycardia), hypotension and central nervous system depression.
What should you do if someone is overdosing?
Because medetomidine is not an opioid, it alone does not respond to naloxone or Narcan, the most common brand of the opioid reversal medication.
However, forensic officials recommend using naloxone if someone is suspected to have overdosed because medetomidine is almost always used in combination with opioids.
Where can I get naloxone?
Anyone in need of naloxone or fentanyl test strips, can request them to be shipped for free through Overdose Lifeline’s website. The supplies can be delivered anonymously.
Narcan is also available over-the-counter at major pharmacies.
How can I know if my neighborhood is at risk for overdose?
Local agencies have created a text system to send alerts when a bad drug batch or overdose spike is detected. To receive the alerts, text SOAR to 765-358-7627.
Contact reporter Sarah Nelson at sarah.nelson@indystar.com
This article originally appeared on Indianapolis Star: What to know about medetomidine, the latest threat in street drugs
