Spencer County Coroner, Indiana Department of Health warn against emerging drug

HENDERSON, Ky (WEHT) – The Spencer County Coroner’s Office and the Indiana Department of Health is warning against an emerging drug that is being mixed with illicit substances.

Officials state last month, IDOH issued an alert to coroners, law enforcement and first responders of Medetomidine, a non-opioid sedative used in veterinary medicine.

According to IDOH, this is most commonly being mixed with fentanyl, xylazine and heroin. The illegal use has recently been detected in returned syringes at multiple Marion County Syringe Service Program sites.

The Spencer County Sheriff’s Office says no Medetomidine has yet been seen during investigations of fatal overdoses, and Medetomidine is commonly mixed into pills and powders often purchased on the street or from internet black market pharmacies.

Medetomidine is commonly referred to as the “Zombie Drug” where symptoms often include sedation, dry mouth, respiratory depression, dilated pupils, muscle twitching and slow heart rate among other symptoms.

Officials state this drug was approved as a sedative for dogs. It has also been determined Medetomidine was found to be stronger and last longer than xylazine.

Jim Ginder with the Hamilton County Health Department states Medetomidine does not respond to Narcon or naloxone; however, because Medetomidine is commonly mixed with fentanyl and other opioids, the use of Narcan is recommended during a suspected overdose.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Eyewitness News (WEHT/WTVW).