The St. Mary’s County Health Department is warning residents about the presence of medetomidine in Maryland’s illicit drug supply. The powerful veterinary sedative is increasingly being found mixed with opioids like fentanyl, significantly raising the risk of overdose.
Medetomidine can cause deep sedation, slowed breathing, low blood pressure and unconsciousness. When combined with fentanyl, the mixture heightens the danger of life-threatening complications, including coma or death.
The Maryland Department of Health recently issued a statewide health advisory about this emerging threat. Local health officials are sharing the information to help protect residents in Calvert, Charles and St. Mary’s counties, where the opioid crisis continues to affect families and communities.
Key side effects of medetomidine include unconsciousness or extreme sleepiness, slow heart rate, trouble breathing, dry mouth and, in severe cases, coma or death.
Signs of overdose may include the body feeling cold, pale or discolored appearance and small pupils.
If you suspect an overdose, officials emphasize the following immediate steps:
- Call 911 immediately.
- Perform rescue breathing.
- Give Narcan.
Important note: Narcan is not effective against medetomidine alone but should still be given in case opioids are also present in the system.
The advisory comes as public health officials across Southern Maryland work to address the evolving drug supply and protect public health. The combination of medetomidine with fentanyl has created new challenges for first responders and families dealing with substance use disorders.
St. Mary’s County Health Department officials urge anyone who uses drugs to carry Narcan and know how to respond to an overdose. The department and its partners continue to expand access to treatment, harm reduction services and overdose prevention education.
For local substance use resources, visit smchd.org/behavioral-health and smchd.org/risk-reduction.
The warning reflects broader statewide efforts to combat the opioid crisis and emerging threats in the illicit drug market. Southern Maryland communities have seen increased collaboration between health departments, law enforcement and community organizations to reduce overdose deaths and support recovery.
Anyone struggling with substance use is encouraged to reach out for help. Local resources are available to provide confidential support and connect individuals with treatment options.
