Fraser Health issues regional toxic drug advisory

CHILLIWACK — Authorities have issued a toxic drug alert Thursday (Jan. 8) due to a veterinary medicine being detected in the Fraser Health region’s unregulated opioid supply.

Medetomidine is a potent, non-opioid sedative typically used for animals.

The drug is 200 times more potent than its sister drug xylazine, or tranq, and is irreversible with naloxone. However, authorities ask that naloxone still be administered in suspected opioid poisonings.

“Be prepared for prolonged sedation and the need for continuous airway support and monitoring,” said the health agency.