The Emergence of Xylazine: The 'Zombie Drug' That Poses a Serious Threat to Public Health

Xylazine, known as "tranq," is a dangerous new drug found in fentanyl and other illegal drugs, causing deadly symptoms and increasing the risk of overdose when combined with other substances. It eliminates enjoyment associated with getting high and "zombifies" the body.

The Emergence of Xylazine: The 'Zombie Drug' That Poses a Serious Threat to Public Health

WA International: The introduction of a drug called Xylazine or "tranq" has caused significant harm in cities throughout the United States, including deadly symptoms such as skin rotting. Although the drug was initially approved by the FDA for veterinary purposes and was used to cut heroin, it has recently been found in fentanyl and other illegal drugs. Xylazine is not safe for human consumption, as an overdose can prevent one from responding to naloxone, the most common overdose reversal treatment. The drug's symptoms include extreme drowsiness, respiratory depression, and severe raw wounds that can spread quickly with repeated exposure. If left untreated, the wounds can lead to dead skin, which may require amputation.

Brooo, what’s happening in the USA🙆🏽‍♂️💀? pic.twitter.com/hUJCjZ5Xlx

— Oyindamola🙄 (@dammiedammie35) December 6, 2022

In 2021, Philadelphia reported that 90% of tested drug samples contained xylazine, increasing the risk of overdose when combined with other illicit substances. The appeal of "tranq" is its ability to extend the high of opioids like fentanyl. However, people with substance use disorders have reported that the drug eliminates any enjoyment associated with getting high and "zombifies" the body.

According to the New York City Department of Health, 2,668 people died from xylazine overdose in 2021, indicating that the drug could exacerbate the ongoing drug epidemic. Experts are concerned about the drug's impact and the dangers associated with its use.

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