(Feb. 20, 2026) – ASAM Releases Alert about Medetomidine in Illicit Drug Supply
The American Society of Addiction Medicine released an emerging challenge alert for medetomidine, a powerful veterinary sedative that is replacing xylazine as the common adulterant in the drug supply.
Medetomidine is 100 to 200 times more potent than xylazine and leaves patients experiencing severe, prolonged withdrawal symptoms, including tachycardia and hypertension, as well as nausea, anxiety and delirium in severe cases.
Naloxone is still an effective antidote to overdose, though patients may not become responsive right away.
HRSA Releases New 340B Program Rebate Model RFI
The Health Resources and Services Administration released a request for information on whether a 340B Drug Pricing Program rebate model should be implemented and on how best to operationalize it.
In 2025, HRSA opened a 340B rebate model to certain manufacturers who volunteered to participate. HRSA later paused implementation due to litigation. In this request, "HRSA is undertaking a methodical and deliberate approach to assess whether implementing a potential 340B Rebate Model Pilot Program [is] consistent with its statutory authority."
Comments on this notice are due no later than Thursday, March 19.