Toronto's drug testing service has discovered significant quantities of veterinary tranquilizers, specifically xylazine and medetomidine, in samples claimed to be fentanyl, with 81% testing positive. This dangerous mix can dangerously depress respiration and complicate overdose situations, as naloxone only works on fentanyl and not these tranquilizers. The increasing prevalence of this mixture poses additional risks to users, evidenced by rising ambulance calls related to cardiac issues at treatment facilities. Experts question the reasoning behind combining these substances, suggesting it may prolong the effects of opioids.
Both of these are veterinary tranquilizers that are central nervous system and respiratory depressants that, particularly in combination with high potency opioids like fentanyl, would work to suppress people's vitals.
It's not entirely clear why these tranquilizers are added to fentanyl, but Thompson says she believes it is to sustain the short-acting opioid's effect for a longer period of time.
The presence of these tranquilizers adds multiple health risks, front line workers say.
Our sites are set up to manage drug consumption, but they aren’t equipped to counteract the effects of veterinary tranquilizers.
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