Drug alert issued in Penticton over fentanyl supply mixed with powerful tranquilizer
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Health officials are warning of a highly toxic drug supply circulating in Penticton that contains fentanyl mixed with large amounts of medetomidine, a potent non-opioid tranquilizer.
Interior Health says the substance is being sold as “down” and appears as purple chunks or pebble-like pieces. Testing has also detected fluorofentanyl and benzodiazepines in the samples, increasing the risk of severe sedation and overdose.
Medetomidine is a strong veterinary tranquilizer that can significantly slow breathing and heart rate. Officials say its presence can make overdoses more complex and longer-lasting, with symptoms that may not respond quickly to naloxone, the medication used to reverse opioid overdoses.
Reported effects include dizziness, confusion, nausea and prolonged drowsiness, sometimes described as nodding out for extended periods.
