CINCINNATI, COLUMBUS, AND MONTGOMERY, OH — Health officials have issued urgent “Bad Batch Alerts” today, Wednesday, May 28, 2025, at 3:03 PM EDT, warning residents in Cincinnati (including ZIP codes 45205, 45204, 45238), Columbus (43222), and Montgomery and Miami Counties of methamphetamine contaminated with Nitazenes, Fentanyl, and Medetomidine, as reported by community sources. These illicit drugs pose severe overdose risks, and rescue breaths are emphasized as vital in emergencies.
The alerts highlight the presence of Medetomidine, a potent veterinary sedative not approved for human use, and Nitazenes, a class of synthetic opioids up to 100 times stronger than morphine. Both substances, often mixed with Fentanyl, amplify overdose dangers, with Medetomidine’s sedative effects resisting reversal by Naloxone, and some Nitazenes requiring multiple Naloxone doses due to their potency. Symptoms of overdose include slowed breathing, unconsciousness, pinpoint pupils, and bluish skin.
Authorities urge the following precautions: carry Naloxone and know its use, test drugs with kits available from www.harmreductionohio.org, start with low doses, avoid using alone or behind locked doors, and contact Never Use Alone at 1-877-696-1996 for free, confidential support during use—outreach workers are available locally. Free harm reduction supplies can be accessed at www.thesoarinitiative.org. The alerts stress the life-threatening nature of these adulterants, urging immediate reporting of suspicious transactions to mitigate risks.
