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Medetomidine

Medetomidine is a powerful non-opioid sedative used in veterinary medicine that has recently been found in illicit drug supplies. Its side effects include intense sedation, with a loss of responsiveness that can last up to six hours. As medetomidine is not approved for human use, its clinical effects are based on veterinary research. Medetomidine is one hundred times more potent than xylazine and causes a greater and longer-acting sedation.

Tianeptine

Tianeptine is an antidepressant that is being sold in gas stations and convenience stores in New Jersey. It is neither FDA-approved nor regulated for use in the United States. Also referred to as “ZaZa,” “Neptune’s Fix,” and “Pegasus Silver,” tianeptine is being falsely marketed as a safer alternative to opioids and a dietary supplement for various health conditions.

Risks of Tianeptine Use
The New Jersey Poison Control Center has recently reported a series of tianeptine poisonings. Exposure to tianeptine can lead to severe, life-threatening effects, including seizures, coma, and even death.

BTMPS

BTMPS – (Bis 2,2,6,6-tetramethyl-4 piperidyl sebacate), has appeared as an adulterant in the illicit drug supply in New Jersey and other states. It, sold under the brand name Tinuvin770 as an industrial chemical not intended for use in humans or animals. It is used as a protective coating on plastics  as well as manufacturing commercial fragrances and candles.

As of December 15, 2024, BTMPS has been seized 92 times throughout New Jersey.

Six overdoses, four fatal and two non-fatal, have included this chemical in suspected heroin found at the scenes.

BTMPS also appeared in powder form and in counterfeit pills. Like xylazine and medetomidine, BTMPS lowers blood pressure.  BTMPS can smell like bug spray or plastic and individuals who ingested it have reported side effects including blurred vision, nausea, sedation, hallucinations and severe coughing after ingestion. According to the DEA BTMPS may be known as “fish dope,” “bug spray dope,” “the bis,” or “boat glue.”

If You Suspect Medetomidine,  Tianeptine or BTMPS Poisoning: Use Naloxone (aka Narcan). 

Since these substances are often found in combination with opioids, it is important to administer naloxone.