May 11, 2026 · Journal of addiction medicine · DOI: 10.1097/ADM.0000000000001714

The Economic Impact of Medetomidine on Critical Care Utilization: A Longitudinal Analysis of Intensive Care Unit Charges for Opioid Withdrawal Across the Adulterated Era

Listen to this summary

The authors aimed to quantify the economic impact of the adulterated fentanyl supply, particularly focusing on the effects of xylazine and medetomidine, on critical care utilization for opioid withdrawal treatment. Their longitudinal analysis revealed a significant increase in ICU charges and admissions associated with opioid withdrawal as medetomidine became prevalent, highlighting a substantial public health challenge that may necessitate changes in health system resource allocation and withdrawal protocols.

Robert Hilton, Shourjo Chakravorty, Mina Ghbrial, Julian Rose, Alan Cherney, Frederick Randolph, Rebecca Jaffe, Lara C Weinstein, Philip Durney, Kory S London

This is one of 33,000+ journals available on OSLR. Try it free for 14 days.

Free 14-day trial. 33,000+ journals. Cancel anytime.

14-day free trial. No commitment.

"Oslr has become part of my weekly routine on my day off. The clinical relevance of the summaries is outstanding — I'd rate it 9/10. Being able to consume research hands-free is a huge advantage for busy physicians."

Dr. Jennifer Thompson

Dr. Jennifer Thompson

Portland, OR

Stay current without falling behind

33,000+ journals. 3-minute audio summaries. Free for 14 days.

Download on the App StoreGet it on Google Play