The Caroline County Health Department is alerting residents to the growing presence of medetomidine, a powerful veterinary sedative increasingly being found in the illicit drug supply. First identified in Maryland’s opioid supply in 2022, medetomidine has since been linked to overdoses in major cities such as Philadelphia and Chicago, and is now being reported on the Delmarva Peninsula.
Medetomidine, sometimes referred to as “rhino tranq,” is not approved for human use and is significantly more potent than xylazine—estimated to be 200 to 300 times stronger. It is often mixed with other substances, including fentanyl, which increases the risk of overdose and complicates treatment.
Exposure to medetomidine can cause deep sedation, dangerously low blood pressure, nausea, agitation, and vomiting. Individuals experiencing an overdose may appear cold to the touch, pale or discolored, and may have very small pupils. Because medetomidine is not an opioid, it does not respond to a specific reversal agent. However, naloxone (Narcan) should still be administered, as opioids like fentanyl may also be present.
In the event of a suspected overdose, call 911 immediately, administer naloxone, and begin rescue breathing if needed.
Residents are encouraged to seek support and information through these local resources:
- The 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline offers 24/7, judgment-free support for mental health and substance use at (443) 783-6875.
- MidShore Behavioral Health connects individuals in the region to mental health and substance use services at (410) 770-4801.
- The Eastern Shore Crisis Response Hotline is available 24/7 at (888) 407-8018 for immediate crisis support.
- For ongoing support, contact Caroline County Behavioral Health at (410) 479-1882, located at 18 Denton Plaza in Denton.
If you have questions or concerns about substance use—for yourself or a loved one—reach out. Help is available, and you are not alone.