Overdose Response Center
Delaware Client Information Bulletin
Medetomidine-Associated Withdrawal
(Pronounced: meh-deh-TOH-mih-deen)
Bulletin Number: 2026-04
Contact: ORC@delaware.gov
Approved: February 27, 2026
Approved By: Brent Waninger, ORC Director
What Is Medetomidine?
- Medetomidine is a veterinary tranquilizer that is not approved for human use.
- In Delaware, medetomidine has largely replaced xylazine in the street drug supply.
- Although medetomidine does not appear to cause skin infections, it can cause:
- Slow heart rate
- Difficulty breathing
- Low blood pressure
- Significant sedation
- Withdrawal symptoms associated with medetomidine are generally much more severe than typical opioid withdrawal.
Testing for Medetomidine
- It is important to know whether medetomidine is present in your drug supply before use.
- Medetomidine test strips are available free of charge through various state partners and outreach teams.
What to Know About Medetomidine
During an Overdose
- Continue to administer naloxone (Narcan) and follow the standard response steps for an opioid overdose.
- The primary purpose of naloxone remains restoring normal breathing.
Withdrawal Timeline
- Medetomidine withdrawal often begins 6 to 12 hours after the last use.
Possible Withdrawal Symptoms
Withdrawal may be severe and can include:
- High blood pressure
- Rapid heart rate
- Anxiety
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Drowsiness
- Excessive sweating
- Muscle tremors
Severe withdrawal may require medical treatment in a hospital and, in some cases, admission to an Intensive Care Unit (ICU).
Recovery
- Even after treatment, it is common for individuals to continue feeling ill while their health and physical appearance improve.
- Recovery may take time before a person begins to feel better.
Hospital Care
- Individuals are strongly encouraged not to leave the hospital until medical staff determine it is safe.
- Leaving prematurely may increase the risk of worsening withdrawal symptoms and unintentional overdose.