State investigators warn of dangerous drug linked to new overdoses

MEMPHIS, Tenn. - Tennessee state investigators sounded the alarm about a drug recently found in overdoses across the state.

According to the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation (TBI), medetomidine has recently been found in many illegal drug supplies. Medetomidine is a veterinary anesthetic. The TBI said it is far more powerful than Xyalzine and that it can cause prolonged sedation.

State authorities said there's recently been a spike in overdoses across the country. Medetomidine, often mixed with fentanyl, has begun showing up in TBI crime labs, the agency reported.

" We strongly urge everyone to avoid this extremely hazardous and potentially deadly drug," the TBI said.

The state agency advised people to keep naloxone on hand if they or a loved one is at risk of overdosing. People who