Dangerous opioid–sedative mix detected in Penticton drug sample

Health officials are warning of a potentially deadly drug combination detected in Penticton.

Interior Health says a tested drug sample in the community has come back positive for cychlorphine and medetomidine, a mix experts say poses a high risk of overdose and serious medical complications. Cychlorphine is a powerful synthetic opioid believed to be approximately 10 times stronger than fentanyl. Early research suggests it may also be long-acting, with effects that can last up to 48 hours.

Medetomidine is a highly potent non-opioid sedative, significantly stronger than xylazine. Health officials say it can place severe stress on the heart and central nervous system.Together, the substances can slow or stop breathing, leading to life-threatening drug poisoning. Officials also report other possible effects from high doses include nausea, vomiting and sweating.

Interior Health is reminding people that naloxone should be administered in any suspected opioid overdose, followed immediately by a call to 9-1-1.