CCENDU Issue 8: Medetomidine in Canada: Emerging Trends, Risks and Responses

Updates CCSA’s September 2024 issue on medetomidine, an alpha-2 adrenergic receptor agonist and veterinary tranquilizer approved for surgical use in animals but not humans. Shows increased detection of medetomidine across many regions in Canada, based on recent data from both drug checking services and Health Canada’s Drug Analysis Service. Includes updated data on where medetomidine is being detected and examines its impact and risks for communities across the country.

Three key points of interest you will find in this document:

1. From January 2024 to March 2026, British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, Ontario and Quebec reported an increase in the detection of medetomidine among various data sources including drug checking and seized samples. 
    
2. Adverse effects of medetomidine include severe and prolonged sedation, slow heart rate, low blood pressure (high blood pressure immediately after use is also possible), delirium or hallucinations, dizziness and fluctuating levels of consciousness. People who regularly use medetomidine can experience severe withdrawal with discontinuation of use which may require life-saving medical care.
    
3. Medetomidine is most commonly detected with opioids and often other central nervous system depressants. Drug toxicity events are becoming more complex and difficult to manage.