Health officials in New Mexico are warning of a rise in overdose deaths, particularly in Otero County, due to stronger fentanyl and tranquilizer-laced drugs. The New Mexico Department of Health reports that overdose deaths increased in the state last year.

Concerns Over Fentanyl and Tranquilizers

David Daniels, harm reduction section manager for the New Mexico Department of Health, stated that the strength of fentanyl in street drug samples has increased significantly, with some samples testing at 10% to 20% fentanyl. This sharp increase in potency raises the risk of overdose. Additionally, officials are warning about polysubstance use, especially fentanyl mixed with tranquilizers such as xylazine and medetomidine, which can extend sedation and make overdoses more difficult to reverse.

Daniels noted that naloxone can reverse the opioid effects of fentanyl, but if tranquilizers are also involved, a person may remain unresponsive and still require emergency medical care. The department is responding to the situation in Otero County by expanding outreach and working with local partners, including The Counseling Center, to connect people to NM Pathways, a low-barrier treatment program for opioid use disorder.

Families and friends can help by meeting loved ones where they are in recovery and connecting them to harm reduction resources. The New Mexico Department of Health also offers free naloxone by mail through their website. People seeking help through NM Pathways can call the nurse helpline at 1-833-796-8773.

Original reporting: KOAT Albuquerque — read the source article.