After an epidemic of opioid overdoses, the United States faces a new health crisis: theboom in xylazine consumption, a tranquilizer for large animals (horses, deer, etc.) authorized since 1972 and whose use has been diverted since the beginning of the 2000s, in particular to induce a feeling of euphoria. Nicknamed “tranq drugfor “tranquilizing drug”, she would now be responsible forone-third of overdose deaths in the United States. She was even referred to as “emerging threat” for countries by health authorities, a first for a drug.
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Often cut with fentanyl, methamphetamine heroin or cocaine, it makes their effects up to 50 or 100 times stronger. Another major problem: it is very easy to get it, thanks in particular to its ridiculous price, only 6 dollars per kilo online. In February, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) had already announced that it was taking measures to restrict the illegal import of xylazine. “We recognize the public health effects of xylazine contaminating these illicit drugs and continue to ensure that the legitimate product is restricted to veterinary use only.“, said Tracey Forfa, director of the FDA’s Center for Veterinary Medicine at the time.
Why is she dangerous? Xylazine is particularly addictive and causes and can in particular lead to a slowing of breathing, heart rate and body temperature, to critical or even fatal levels. It also causes severe skin lesions and sores that become easily infected and can lead to amputation if not treated promptly.
This appearance of necrotic skin, as well as the slow, arched gait that xylazine causes, has given it the nickname “zombie drug”. In some cases, it can lead to sedation or a coma that can lead to death.
No treatment in case of overdose
Unlike fentanyl or other opioids, no treatment exists for xylazine overdose. Noloxone, usually administered in the event of an overdose, would be completely effective on the zombie drug. And unfortunately, “routine toxicology screening does not detect xylazine” regret the American health authorities and its side effects can be confused with those of opioids, making the “distinction between opioid overdoses and exposure to xylazine” more difficult.
In 2020, xylazine alone was responsible for 26% of overdose deaths in Pennsylvania, and 20% in neighboring Maryland. Between 2010 and 2015, xylazine was responsible for 2% of opioid deaths: in 2019, the rate rose to 31%.
In France, xylazine is not authorized as an anesthetic for animals, and does not constitute a major health alert for the moment, even if addictologists remain vigilant and closely monitor the situation in the United States.
Source :
- FDA Takes Action to Restrict Unlawful Import of Xylazine, FDA, February 28, 2023
