HENDERSON, Ky – The Spencer County Coroner’s Office and the Indiana Department of Health are warning against a new drug being mixed with illicit substances.
Officials report that last month, the IDOH alerted coroners, law enforcement, and first responders about Medetomidine, a non-opioid sedative used in veterinary medicine.
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According to the IDOH, this drug is most often mixed with fentanyl, xylazine, and heroin. The illegal use of Medetomidine has recently been detected in returned syringes at multiple Marion County Syringe Service Program sites.
The Spencer County Sheriff’s Office notes that no Medetomidine has been found in investigations of fatal overdoses. Medetomidine is commonly mixed into pills and powders bought on the street or from online black-market pharmacies.
Medetomidine, often called the “Zombie Drug,” can cause symptoms like sedation, dry mouth, respiratory depression, dilated pupils, muscle twitching, and a slow heart rate.
Officials state this drug was approved as a sedative for dogs and is stronger and longer-lasting than xylazine.
Jim Ginder with the Hamilton County Health Department says Medetomidine does not respond to Narcan or naloxone. However, since it is often mixed with fentanyl and other opioids, Narcan is recommended during a suspected overdose.