Whatcom County health officials warn of new tranquilizer in illicit drug supply
Whatcom County is warning about the possible mixing of a new drug with fentanyl that can lead to overdose or serious withdrawal. Medetomidine, a veterinary sedative sometimes called “rhino tranq,” “mede” or “dex,” has recently appeared in Washington state; and while it’s unclear whether the drug is currently in Whatcom County, health officials expect it will be soon if it’s not already.
Medetomidine is impossible to see, smell or taste, and is most often added to fentanyl. It’s at least 200 times stronger than xylazine, another animal tranquilizer that is being added to fentanyl and leading to higher risk of overdose.
Medetomidine can cause sleepiness, slow heart rate and low blood pressure. The overdose-reversing drug naloxone, also called Narcan, does not work on it; however, officials say you should still administer it if someone has stopped breathing and you suspect an opioid overdose. The naloxone will still work on the fentanyl or other opioid involved, and may help someone start breathing again.
If you use drugs such as fentanyl, health officials recommend never using them alone so that someone can administer naloxone and call 911 if something goes wrong. They also suggest everyone carry naloxone, even if they don’t use drugs.
For addiction resources, visit WhatcomHope.org and click on “get help.”