Medetomidine drug alert

FNHA and Northern Health have put out a drug advisory for Northwest BC. Drug checking has found medetomidine in several samples being sold as down in our area.

Medetomidine isn’t an opioid. It’s a very powerful sedative, approved in Canada in veterinary use. It’s similar to xylazine (tranq), but about 200x stronger.

What that means in real life: drugs with medetomidine in them can knock people out hard and for a long time. Folks may be nearly impossible to wake, breathing can slow down, and pulses can be very weak or hard to find. This makes overdoses more complicated and more dangerous.

Naloxone does not work on medetomidine because it isn’t an opioid. That said, medetomidine is almost always found alongside fentanyl, which is an opioid. You should still give naloxone if you think opioids are involved, since it can help with the fentanyl in the mix.

Just know that:

  • It might take multiple doses of Naloxone to get a response.
  • The person may still be deeply sedated or unconscious even after breathing improves.
  • Naloxone may not be enough on its own.

In these situations, getting extra help (calling paramedics) really matters.

If you’re using, here are some tips to keep you safe:

  • Carry naloxone, and know how to use it.
  • Don’t use alone. Use with someone you trust around, or access an Overdose Prevention Site in your area.
  • If you are using alone, use the Lifeguard app on your phone or call/text the National Overdose Response Service (NORS) at 1-888-688-6677.
  • If you’ve taken a break, recently been sick, were just released from jail or hospital, or aren’t sure about your tolerance - use way less than usual.
  • Mixing drugs (or alcohol) makes things way riskier. Avoid it if you can.
  • Test a small amount first and go slow.
  • Access drug checking service at Smithers Northern Health Specialized MHSU Outreach in Smithers:
    • Drop off at 3862A Broadway Ave, Smithers BC (8.30am - 7pm).
    • Call 250-847-0203 for pickup.
  • If someone overdoses, call 911 or your local emergency number for extra support as soon as you can.

The drug supply keeps changing in unpredictable ways. Looking out for yourself and each other, sharing info, and using as safely as possible can save lives.