You’ve seen it in most downtown areas — viral films of people acting strangely or remaining in awkward positions for extended periods. It’s no longer just Fentanyl we need to worry about, there is a new substance called Xylazine which is now being abused in the US and around the world.
Other names for xylazine include “tranq” and “zombie drug.”
Most people assume the zombie-like state is due to opiate and fentanyl use, however, it’s the addition of xylazine to the heroin, fentanyl, and cocaine supply. While Narcan cannot reverse the effects of this medication, fentanyl or another opiate may be consumed along with this substance; nevertheless, Narcan can reverse the effects of other opiates but not those of xylazine.
Thus, as Security and EP specialists, we need to be aware of this new phenomenon.
What is Xylazine?
Xylazine is a potent sedative that is primarily used in veterinary medicine to sedate large animals such as horses and cattle.
It belongs to a class of drugs known as alpha-2 adrenergic agonists and is used to induce sedation, muscle relaxation, and analgesia.
Recent Increase in Use in Drug Trade
While xylazine is primarily used in veterinary medicine, it has increasingly become a drug of abuse in recent years. This is particularly true in South America, where the substance has been used as a substitute for cocaine in the drug trade. According to the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), xylazine has become a significant drug of abuse in countries such as Colombia, Mexico, and Peru.
One of the reasons for the increase in the use of xylazine in the drug trade is its low cost and easy availability. Unlike cocaine, which is expensive and difficult to obtain, this drug is readily available and can be purchased without a prescription in many countries. This has made it an attractive option for drug dealers looking to cut costs and increase profits.
How Xylazine Affects the Human Body
Xylazine is a powerful sedative that works by depressing the central nervous system. It binds to receptors in the brain that regulate sleep, pain, and other functions, leading to a state of sedation and relaxation. In addition to sedation, xylazine has muscle relaxant and analgesic properties, making it useful for medical procedures requiring these effects.
When ingested, xylazine can produce a range of side effects, including drowsiness, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, and respiratory depression. In high doses, it can cause severe respiratory depression and even respiratory arrest, which can be life-threatening.
How Xylazine is Ingested and Mixed with Other Drugs
The drug is typically ingested orally, either in pill or powder form. In the drug trade, it is often mixed with other substances, such as cocaine, heroin, or fentanyl, to enhance the effects of these drugs. This practice is known as drug mixing or drug adulteration and is a common strategy used by drug dealers to increase profits.
The practice of mixing xylazine with other drugs can be extremely dangerous, as it can increase the risk of overdose and other adverse effects. For example, mixing xylazine with cocaine can increase the risk of respiratory depression and other respiratory problems, which can be fatal.
Side Effects
This substance can produce a range of side effects, including drowsiness, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, and respiratory depression. In high doses, it can cause severe respiratory depression and even respiratory arrest, which can be life-threatening. Other potential side effects of xylazine include confusion, agitation, and hallucinations.
Treatment
The treatment for xylazine overdose depends on the severity of the symptoms. In mild cases, supportive care may be all that is needed, such as providing oxygen and monitoring vital signs. In more severe cases, treatment may include the administration of naloxone, which is an antidote for opioid overdose.
Naloxone is not effective for xylazine overdose unless there is a concurrent opioid overdose. This is because naloxone works by blocking the effects of opioids on the central nervous system, and the other substance does not interact with these receptors. However, naloxone may be useful in cases where xylazine has been mixed with opioids, such as fentanyl or heroin.
Conclusion
Xylazine is a potent sedative that is primarily used in veterinary medicine to sedate large animals such as horses and cattle. However, in recent years, it has increasingly become a drug of abuse, particularly in South America, where it has been used as a substitute for cocaine in the drug trade.
As security and EP specialists, it is important to be aware of this new phenomenon and take measures to prevent its spread. This may include educating ourselves and others about the dangers of xylazine, staying up-to-date on drug trends and patterns, and implementing strategies to mitigate the risks associated with drug use.
