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A new drug in fashion in the United States, xylazine is the cause of more than a quarter of overdose deaths in certain American states. This sedative initially intended for animals also causes necrosis that can lead to amputation.
Normally prescribed as a sedative and muscle relaxant for animals, xylazine has become the newest drug in the United States. Inexpensive and ultra powerful, it would give the impression of being “in a cloud”… but with a sometimes fatal landing.
“Zombie” drug causes abscesses and necrotic tissue
According to ANSES, xyzaline is a clear and colorless injectable solution, which allows the sedation of dogs, cats, horses and cattle. But in the United States, its use has been widely diverted to be consumed with other prohibited products or alcohol. Known as the drug “zombie“, it is appreciated for its euphoric and analgesic effects.
It blocks adrenergic receptors, which blocks the release of norepinephrine. In humans, it causes loss of attention, intense sedation, hallucinations… Beyond the psychological effects, it reduces tissue oxygenation and causes necrosis, abscesses and infections in those who consume it. Sometimes amputation is the only solution.
It also slows heart rate, blood pressure and breathing, says the Canadian Center on Substance Use and Addiction (CCSA).
Another worrying observation: it is often combined with other drugs, such as fentanyl, to increase the effects tenfold.
“When xylazine is mixed with other sedatives, such as fentanyl, benzodiazepines, or alcohol, it can increase the risk of overdose and death“, warns the CCSA.
A growing share of overdose deaths
Currently, doctors do not know how to treat overdoses related to this product. This data is all the more worrying since xyzaline takes an important place in the ranking of popular drugs: according to a study published in ScienceDirect26% of overdose deaths observed in Philadelphia are associated with Xylazine in 2022. And in the other states, it is not much better: in Maryland, it is associated with 19.3% of overdoses and 10.2% in Connecticut.
Faced with the ravages of this drug, medicine is trying to find treatments in the event of overdoses and the prevention of its consumption is a public health priority.