In a recent public health alert, the New York State Health Department (DOH) has warned about the presence of a potent synthetic veterinary sedative in drug samples discovered in both Central New York and the Capital Region. According to DOH officials, the dangerous cocktail containing medetomidine was detected through collaborative efforts with ACR Health in Syracuse and Catholic Charities in Schenectady.

Laboratory testing confirmed the presence of medetomidine in two separate samples. The first sample, collected in Schenectady on May 24, not only contained medetomidine but also fentanyl. The second sample, collected in Syracuse on June 5, may be linked to two nonfatal overdoses.

Dr. James McDonald, the DOH Commissioner, emphasized the significant risks associated with medetomidine in a public health warning. Medetomidine affects the central nervous system and can be extremely dangerous when combined with other substances. Notably, medetomidine is considered more potent than xylazine, commonly known as "tranq."

The Office of Addiction Services and Supports (OASAS) issued a public health advisory on May 31, warning about the emerging threat of medetomidine in the national drug supply. OASAS highlighted "mass overdose outbreaks" associated with medetomidine in Philadelphia, Chicago, and Pittsburgh, which cannot be reversed using naloxone.

Although medetomidine is not classified as an opioid and does not respond to naloxone, OASAS advises administering naloxone to individuals suspected of experiencing an overdose. Naloxone, along with rescue breathing, should be administered promptly, and emergency services should be alerted as soon as possible.

OASAS further explained that the effects of medetomidine become more pronounced when combined with opioids. These effects include slowed breathing, reduced heart rate, varying blood pressure, poor blood circulation, and potential heart failure.

The Center for Forensic Science Research and Education issued an earlier public alert, reporting the initial observation of medetomidine in the United States in Maryland towards the end of 2022. Since then, it has spread to Missouri, Colorado, Pennsylvania, and California in 2023.

In addition to Syracuse and Schenectady, community drug-checking programs can also be found in Albany, the Bronx, Hauppauge, Ithaca, Johnson City, Plattsburgh, Utica, and Watertown. These programs utilize spectroscopy machines and test strips to identify any residual substances.

As the DOH raises awareness of the presence of the powerful synthetic veterinary sedative in New York, it urges individuals and communities to remain vigilant and take appropriate precautions while law enforcement and health agencies continue to investigate and address this alarming issue.