Health Alert: Medetomidine found in illegal drug supply leads to severe withdrawal syndrome

[Centers for Disease Control and Prevention]

Health Advisory: Medetomidine found in illegal drug supply leads to severe withdrawal syndrome

Medetomidine is being detected in the illegal drug supply in more places across the United States. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the White House Office of National Drug Control Policy (ONDCP) released a health advisory though the Health Alert Network (HAN) titled Medetomidine in the U.S. Illegal Fentanyl Supply Increasing Risk for Overdose and Severe Withdrawal Syndrome.

People may be unknowingly exposed to medetomidine, a sedative not approved for humans, when it is mixed with illegally made fentanyl. Stopping medetomidine following regular use may lead to severe withdrawal that can require emergency or intensive care. Currently, most cases of severe withdrawal syndrome have been reported in the Northeast, but detection of medetomidine in the drug supply is expanding geographically and can be found throughout the U.S. Clinicians should watch for signs of medetomidine exposure and severe withdrawal symptoms in patients who present to an emergency department after a suspected overdose. This is especially important in regions where medetomidine has been detected in the drug supply. Collaboration between public health agencies, medical professionals, and community organizations is essential to mitigate risks and provide appropriate care for affected individuals. Be prepared. Review the HAN for medetomidine-related recommendations for health departments, clinicians, hospitals, laboratories, and people at risk for overdose. Additional resources: Medetomidine Situation Summary and CDC Medetomidine Webinar for Clinicians

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