Head’s Up about Medetomidine

Medetomidine, (“meh-deh-TOM-ih-deen”) is an Alpha-2 adrenergic agonist and a new form of "tranq", which has been detected in fentanyl samples brought to Drug Checking Los Angeles. Sometimes described as a stronger version of xylazine and acting on the same receptors in the brain, medetomidine is an additive in fentanyl that may result in heavy sedation and sometimes confusion for several hours. It may also affect withdrawal symptoms and skin wounds.

While originating in the Northeast U.S., medetomidine has begun popping up in fentanyl across the country, including California and samples obtained in Los Angeles. Forms of medetomidine are currently used as a sedative in both human and animal medicine. Although medetomidine still remains rare in samples we test during our drug checking services, people who use fentanyl should be aware of the possibility of its presence and that its effects last longer than xylazine. Withdrawals from medetomidine may be severe or dangerous and may require hospitalization.

In the event of an opioid overdose with suspected xylazine or medetomidine, give naloxone (Narcan), rescue breaths if needed, and call 911. While naloxone does not work on medetomidine or xylazine, it will reverse the effects of opioids and restore breathing until help arrives—not necessarily reverse the sedating effects of medetomidine or xylazine.

While to our knowledge no medetomidine strips have undergone independent review, we are currently piloting a new medetomidine test strip on all fentanyl samples received during our services and evaluating how well they work. Medetomidine will test negative on a xylazine test strip, even though it may feel similar to xylazine.

If you are interested or suspect that medetomdine or xylazine may be in your drugs, come visit us at one of our four sites in Los Angeles!