After the United States, public health officials in Mexico are sounding the alarm after a recent study discovered the presence of animal tranquillizer xylazine in opioids. Meanwhile, a report by the country’s government, on Friday (Apr 12) also found that it is facing a dire shortage of fentanyl for medical use.&nbsp;

<h2>‘Zombie drug’</h2>

Popularly known as the “tranq dope” or “zombie drug,” xylazine cut into heroin and fentanyl which has worsened the ongoing drug epidemic across various American cities

Notably, the animal tranquillizer was found in the opioids in cities in Mexico’s northwest, which border with the US.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;'Zombie' drug Xylazine found in cannabis THC vapes in UK

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The findings have prompted Mexico’s health ministry in conjunction with the National Commission on Mental Health and Addictions to issue an alert for health personnel and first responders in the country’s border cities for “possible adulteration of heroin and fentanyl with xylazine.”

Since xylazine is a sedative it does not have the same effects as an opioid but it can make opioid overdose reversal treatments less effective. Therefore, it not only raises the risk of overdose-related deaths but can also cause severe skin abscesses that can be life-threatening.

Out of the 300 samples of drug residues tested in the cities of Tijuana and Mexicali, xylazine was found in 35 residues of heroin mixed with fentanyl and 26 fentanyl residues.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/people-using-cannabis-vapes-in-uk-at-risk-from-zombie-drug-warn-experts-709737">People using cannabis vapes in UK at risk from 'zombie' drug, warn experts</a>

It is also worth noting that the study had set out to identify adulterants in drugs and just happened to stumble upon xylazine.&nbsp;

“We were surprised to find xylazine,” said Clara Fleiz from Mexico’s National Institute of Psychiatry and the study’s lead author, as quoted by Reuters.

The country’s alarm over xylazine also comes as consumption of fentanyl is reportedly increasing within its borders.

<h2>Mexico is running short of fentanyl</h2>

On Friday, Mexico reported yet another drug-related problem, as the country which is the leading producer of illicit fentanyl, can’t get enough for medical use. This is despite Mexican cartels reportedly pumping out tonens of the illicit narcotic.

However, the study by Mexico’s National Commission on Mental Health and Addictions did not give any reason for the shortage of fentanyl, which is needed for anaesthesia in hospitals, but claimed that it is a worldwide problem.&nbsp;

Also Read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/sierra-leone-addicts-dig-up-graves-to-get-high-from-drug-made-of-human-bones-709339">&nbsp;Sierra Leone: Addicts dig up graves to get high on drug made of human bones</a>

The report said that the country had to import fentanyl and the imports fell by more than 50 per cent between 2022 and 2023. However, during this time, seizures of illicit fentanyl rose from 1.24 tonnes (2022) to 1.85 tonnes last year.&nbsp;

The study has also attributed this shortage to the US saying that the “excessive use of opiates in recent decades in the United States has had important repercussions on consumption and supply in Mexico.”&nbsp;

Meanwhile, with the lack of availability of morphine and fentanyl, anesthesiologists in Mexico have been forced to acquire their own supplies and even administer multiple doses from a single vial to conserve.&nbsp;

The US Department of State’s 2023 International Narcotics Control Strategy Report said around 96 per cent of all fentanyl seized originated in Mexico.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

After the United States, public health officials in Mexico are sounding the alarm after a recent study discovered the presence of animal tranquillizer xylazine in opioids.

After the United States, public health officials in Mexico are sounding the alarm after a recent study discovered the presence of animal tranquillizer xylazine in opioids. Meanwhile, a report by the country’s government, on Friday (Apr 12) also found that it is facing a dire shortage of fentanyl for medical use. ‘Zombie drug’ Popularly known as the “tranq dope” or “zombie drug,” xylazine cut into heroin and fentanyl which has worsened the ongoing drug epidemic across various American cities Notably, the animal tranquillizer was found in the opioids in cities in Mexico’s northwest, which border with the US. WATCH | 'Zombie' drug Xylazine found in cannabis THC vapes in UK The findings have prompted Mexico’s health ministry in conjunction with the National Commission on Mental Health and Addictions to issue an alert for health personnel and first responders in the country’s border cities for “possible adulteration of heroin and fentanyl with xylazine.” Since xylazine is a sedative it does not have the same effects as an opioid but it can make opioid overdose reversal treatments less effective. Therefore, it not only raises the risk of overdose-related deaths but can also cause severe skin abscesses that can be life-threatening. Out of the 300 samples of drug residues tested in the cities of Tijuana and Mexicali, xylazine was found in 35 residues of heroin mixed with fentanyl and 26 fentanyl residues. Also Read | People using cannabis vapes in UK at risk from 'zombie' drug, warn experts It is also worth noting that the study had set out to identify adulterants in drugs and just happened to stumble upon xylazine. “We were surprised to find xylazine,” said Clara Fleiz from Mexico’s National Institute of Psychiatry and the study’s lead author, as quoted by Reuters. The country’s alarm over xylazine also comes as consumption of fentanyl is reportedly increasing within its borders. Mexico is running short of fentanyl On Friday, Mexico reported yet another drug-related problem, as the country which is the leading producer of illicit fentanyl, can’t get enough for medical use. This is despite Mexican cartels reportedly pumping out tonens of the illicit narcotic. However, the study by Mexico’s National Commission on Mental Health and Addictions did not give any reason for the shortage of fentanyl, which is needed for anaesthesia in hospitals, but claimed that it is a worldwide problem. Also Read | Sierra Leone: Addicts dig up graves to get high on drug made of human bones The report said that the country had to import fentanyl and the imports fell by more than 50 per cent between 2022 and 2023. However, during this time, seizures of illicit fentanyl rose from 1.24 tonnes (2022) to 1.85 tonnes last year. The study has also attributed this shortage to the US saying that the “excessive use of opiates in recent decades in the United States has had important repercussions on consumption and supply in Mexico.” Meanwhile, with the lack of availability of morphine and fentanyl, anesthesiologists in Mexico have been forced to acquire their own supplies and even administer multiple doses from a single vial to conserve. The US Department of State’s 2023 International Narcotics Control Strategy Report said around 96 per cent of all fentanyl seized originated in Mexico. (With inputs from agencies)

Mexico raises alarm after study finds ‘zombie’ drug xylazine in opioids

People smoking cannabis THC vapes in the United Kingdom are at risk from a dangerous "zombie" drug, warn experts.

The warning comes after confiscated products showed traces of Xylazine, a strong sedative capable of taking down big animals like cows and horses.

<h2>Recent history of Xylazine</h2>

In the US, Xylazine has emerged as an epidemic of sorts, with reports of overdose deaths. The drug was even declared an emerging threat by the White House's Office of National Drug Control Policy. In July 2023, a National Response Plan was released to address the emerging threat of fentanyl mixed with Xylazine.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/doctors-in-china-successfully-transplant-pig-kidney-into-brain-dead-human-patient-709688">Doctors in China successfully transplant pig kidney into brain-dead human patient</a>

In the UK, there has been at least one Xylazine-related&nbsp;death. Amid fears that its misuse could grow, experts have warned that it even puts those who inject or take strong drugs at risk.

Researchers from&nbsp;King's College London, as per a BBC report, have found that new types of illicit xylazine products are now entering the UK market.

Their findings have been published in the journal Addiction.

Researchers found traces of the drug in codeine and diazepam, or Valium being sold in the market.

To gather evidence, the team of researchers last year contacted all toxicology laboratories in the UK. They also analysed drug-testing results from hauls seized by law enforcement.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/viagra-intake-decreases-alzheimers-risk-by-more-than-50-per-cent-study-704410">Viagra intake decreases Alzheimer’s risk by more than 50 per cent: Study</a>

As per BBC, they found Xylazine in only two THC vapes and a small number of illegally sold pills out of tens of thousands of products. However, they pointed out that although small, the findings were concerning.&nbsp;

<h2>What Xylazine does to the human body</h2>

As per a National Institutes of Health-led study, Xylazine, which is not approved for use in humans, can worsen the life-threatening effects of opioids.

When used in combination with opioids like fentanyl and heroine, "xylazine may damage the ability of the brain to get enough oxygen, which is one of the most dangerous effects of opioid drugs and can lead to death." The drug is&nbsp;known to cause sedation and dangerously slow down breathing&nbsp;and heart rate, and&nbsp;lower blood pressure in humans.

(With inputs from agencies)

People smoking cannabis THC vapes in the United Kingdom are at risk from a dangerous "zombie" drug, warn experts. The warning comes after confiscated products showed traces of Xylazine, a strong sedative capable of taking down big animals like cows and horses.

People smoking cannabis THC vapes in the United Kingdom are at risk from a dangerous "zombie" drug, warn experts. The warning comes after confiscated products showed traces of Xylazine, a strong sedative capable of taking down big animals like cows and horses. Recent history of Xylazine In the US, Xylazine has emerged as an epidemic of sorts, with reports of overdose deaths. The drug was even declared an emerging threat by the White House's Office of National Drug Control Policy. In July 2023, a National Response Plan was released to address the emerging threat of fentanyl mixed with Xylazine. Also read | Doctors in China successfully transplant pig kidney into brain-dead human patient In the UK, there has been at least one Xylazine-related death. Amid fears that its misuse could grow, experts have warned that it even puts those who inject or take strong drugs at risk. Researchers from King's College London, as per a BBC report, have found that new types of illicit xylazine products are now entering the UK market. Their findings have been published in the journal Addiction. Researchers found traces of the drug in codeine and diazepam, or Valium being sold in the market. To gather evidence, the team of researchers last year contacted all toxicology laboratories in the UK. They also analysed drug-testing results from hauls seized by law enforcement. Also read | Viagra intake decreases Alzheimer’s risk by more than 50 per cent: Study As per BBC, they found Xylazine in only two THC vapes and a small number of illegally sold pills out of tens of thousands of products. However, they pointed out that although small, the findings were concerning. What Xylazine does to the human body As per a National Institutes of Health-led study, Xylazine, which is not approved for use in humans, can worsen the life-threatening effects of opioids. When used in combination with opioids like fentanyl and heroine, "xylazine may damage the ability of the brain to get enough oxygen, which is one of the most dangerous effects of opioid drugs and can lead to death." The drug is known to cause sedation and dangerously slow down breathing and heart rate, and lower blood pressure in humans. (With inputs from agencies)

People using cannabis vapes in UK at risk from 'zombie' drug, warn experts

The scale of ‘tranq’ epidemic infesting the streets of Philadelphia, US, has been revealed through horrific footage of drug addicts shared on social media.

The clips showed the Kensington neighbourhood — regarded as the ‘ground zero’ for the city’s drug crisis —purportedly filled with zombie-like addicts, who can be seen passed out on the streets. The clip was first shared by a user on TokTok, and then on Twitter.

The video highlights the alarming drug situation facing the&nbsp;US due to the overuse of Xylazine drug or “tranq”—otherwise also known as the ‘zombie drug’.

It was initially approved for veterinary use by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) but gradually was discovered in fentanyl, heroin and other illicit drugs to enhance its sedative effects, according to the reports.

<h2>Emerging threat</h2>

The drug is so potent that the White House recently declared it an “emerging threat”.

In a statement last month, Philadelphia health officials said that the city has been massively impacted by the epidemic.

“Xylazine has hit Philadelphia particularly hard, causing increased overdose deaths as well as severe wounds that can lead to sepsis and amputation,” the Philadelphia Department of Health and Board of Health said, according to New York Post outlet.

“As a result, the Philadelphia Department of Public Health has been working closely with partners across the city to address this new aspect of the drug overdose epidemic.”

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Disturbing New Footage Surfaces of Philadelphia's "Tranq" a new Zombie 🧟‍♀️ Drug 💊 epidemic, Pray for Philly 🙏🏾💔 
<a href="https://t.co/xTmGWExBVo">pic.twitter.com/xTmGWExBVo</a>
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At the centre of this crisis is District Attorney Larry Krasner, who is being blamed for failing to clamp&nbsp;down on the drug situation.

His failure to handle crimes and drug crisis led to his impeachment in 2022 for 'dereliction of duty', however, his impeachment trial was postponed indefinitely.

Xylazine, a non-opioid, is considered not fit for humans because an overdose prevents one from responding to naloxone, or Narcan—the most used overdose reversal treatment.

The drug can be consumed in a number of ways as it is mixed with other substances to enhance its psychedelic effects.

Users are seen smoking, snorting, injecting, swallowing and inhaling the drug, with some even seen injecting it between the toes of their feet.&nbsp;

The effects of the drug appear very similar to that of an overdose, as victims suffer from an uncontrolled stupor of sedation, slowed breathing and unconsciousness.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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The scale of ‘tranq’ epidemic infesting the streets of Philadelphia, US, has been revealed through horrific footage of drug addicts shared on social media. The clips showed the Kensington neighbourhood — regarded as the ‘ground zero’ for the city’s drug crisis —purportedly filled with zombie-like addicts, who can be seen passed out on the streets.

The scale of ‘tranq’ epidemic infesting the streets of Philadelphia, US, has been revealed through horrific footage of drug addicts shared on social media. The clips showed the Kensington neighbourhood — regarded as the ‘ground zero’ for the city’s drug crisis —purportedly filled with zombie-like addicts, who can be seen passed out on the streets. The clip was first shared by a user on TokTok, and then on Twitter. The video highlights the alarming drug situation facing the US due to the overuse of Xylazine drug or “tranq”—otherwise also known as the ‘zombie drug’. It was initially approved for veterinary use by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) but gradually was discovered in fentanyl, heroin and other illicit drugs to enhance its sedative effects, according to the reports. Emerging threat The drug is so potent that the White House recently declared it an “emerging threat”. In a statement last month, Philadelphia health officials said that the city has been massively impacted by the epidemic. “Xylazine has hit Philadelphia particularly hard, causing increased overdose deaths as well as severe wounds that can lead to sepsis and amputation,” the Philadelphia Department of Health and Board of Health said, according to New York Post outlet. “As a result, the Philadelphia Department of Public Health has been working closely with partners across the city to address this new aspect of the drug overdose epidemic.” Disturbing New Footage Surfaces of Philadelphia's "Tranq" a new Zombie 🧟‍♀️ Drug 💊 epidemic, Pray for Philly 🙏🏾💔 pic.twitter.com/xTmGWExBVo — Raphousetv (RHTV) (@raphousetv2) May 28, 2023 × At the centre of this crisis is District Attorney Larry Krasner, who is being blamed for failing to clamp down on the drug situation. His failure to handle crimes and drug crisis led to his impeachment in 2022 for 'dereliction of duty', however, his impeachment trial was postponed indefinitely. Xylazine, a non-opioid, is considered not fit for humans because an overdose prevents one from responding to naloxone, or Narcan—the most used overdose reversal treatment. The drug can be consumed in a number of ways as it is mixed with other substances to enhance its psychedelic effects. Users are seen smoking, snorting, injecting, swallowing and inhaling the drug, with some even seen injecting it between the toes of their feet. The effects of the drug appear very similar to that of an overdose, as victims suffer from an uncontrolled stupor of sedation, slowed breathing and unconsciousness. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Inside Philadelphia’s hellhole: Shocking footage shows devastating impact of ‘zombie drug’ epidemic

A 43-year-old man becomes the first victim of a deadly flesh-rotting drug, named Xylazine, in the UK. As per various reports, Xylazine is causing troubles in several American cities. Known as the zombie drug, it rots the flesh to a point where the users' limbs had to be cut-off.

A 43-year-old British man dies due to Xylazine drug in the UK

Flesh-eating zombie drug Xylazine that has devastated US takes first life in UK. But could this just be the tip of the iceberg of the zombie drug overdose? What is this flesh-eating drug? Why is it called the Zombie drug? Molly Gambhir reports.

Gravitas: Beware of the flesh-eating Zombie drug

A horrific new 'zombie' drug that has devastated cities throughout the United States has been discovered in the United Kingdom and has claimed the life of a British factory&nbsp;worker.

Karl Warburton, 43, died in May from the effects of xylazine coupled with other narcotics&nbsp;such as heroin, fentanyl, and cocaine, reported Daily Mail.

The West Midlands man died of acute aspiration pneumonitis, a disease commonly caused by breathing pollutants.&nbsp;However, xylazine was recorded as a contributing factor in&nbsp;Warburton's death certificate.&nbsp;

The technically&nbsp;legal animal tranquilizer "tranq" is frequently used to cut cocaine, heroin, or fentanyl dependence. As it grows in popularity in the illegal drug market, contributing to an increasing number of overdose deaths, states in the United States are increasingly attempting to restrict access to it.

The substance enforcement administration and health authorities have issued cautions against using the substance. While the problem is most visible in Los Angeles, Canadian officials have also warned that tranq is making its way onto their&nbsp;streets.

Here's everything you need to know about tranq, including why it's referred to as a flesh-eating zombie medicine and how the United States is&nbsp;trying to regulate it.

<h2>What is Xylazine?</h2>

Xylazine is a veterinary medication that is licenced for use as a sedative in large&nbsp;animals. Rompun and Anased are two of its brand names. It is sometimes referred to as a "horse tranquilizer."

It needs a veterinarian licence to buy and use, but it is rapidly appearing in Canada's illicit drug supply, frequently without the user's awareness. Other medicines are cut with xylazine since it is an inexpensive filler that can improve opioid potency.

<h2>What effect does tranq have on people?</h2>

In humans, xylazine has sedative properties. It alleviates pain, lowers brain activity, and has the potential to lower blood pressure, heart rate, and breathing rate.

People who use xylazine may develop open sores anywhere on their body. These wounds can result in hospitalisation, necrosis (rotting tissue), and even amputation, which is why it is referred to as a zombie drug.

The drug's wounds look to be "eating away your flesh from the inside out," according to nurses who spoke to Stat News.

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;Gravitas: What is the 'Zombie drug'?

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Overdoes are also more likely with drugs like fentanyl that have been cut with xylazine. According to Health Canada, xylazine can cause central nervous system depression, respiratory depression, bradycardia, and hypotension in humans, which are comparable to opioid withdrawal symptoms.

“When combined with opioids like fentanyl, as is frequently the case, xylazine enhances the life-threatening effect of respiratory depression (slowing or stopping breathing) caused by opioids, increasing the risk of overdose and death,” according to&nbsp;Los Angeles public health officials, as reported by the National Post.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/fentanyl-blend-with-xylazine-the-vet-medicine-causes-havoc-in-us-hot-drug-zones-551423">Fentanyl blend with xylazine, the vet medicine, causes havoc in US hot drug zones</a>

Unlike fentanyl, no medication or antidote is available to reverse xylazine overdose, like naloxone does for opioids. Experts still recommend that naxolone be administered in the event of a xylazine overdose if opioids are present.

“Tranq is basically zombifying people’s bodies,” 28-year-old Sam told Sky News. “Until nine months ago, I never had wounds. Now, there are holes in my legs and feet.”

The New York City Department of Health said that 2,668 individuals in New York died in 2021 as a result of xylazine overdoses, and experts worry that the medication might exacerbate the country's current drug pandemic.

<h2>How are US&nbsp;states responding?</h2>

Many states in the United States have implemented different measures to limit the spread of the substance.&nbsp;

Pennsylvania has added xylazine to its list of banned substances in an effort to strengthen drug restrictions and empower police to prosecute individuals who break them.

“We are giving greater tools to law enforcement and others to properly regulate, control and contain these drugs, make arrests and hopefully prosecutions,” Democratic Gov. Josh Shapiro said at a news conference in Philadelphia.

Ohio's Republican governor signed an executive order banning xylazine through the state's Board of Pharmacy in March, while West Virginia's Republican governor signed legislation making it a restricted substance.

The designations in Pennsylvania, Ohio, and West Virginia enable veterinarians to continue using the medicine to sedate animals, but they impose stricter requirements on how the drug must be handled, recorded, and kept.

“Xylazine is making the deadliest drug threat our country has ever faced, fentanyl, even deadlier,” said Anne Milgram, DEA Administrator, who spoke to the National host.&nbsp;

“DEA has seized xylazine and fentanyl mixtures in 48 of 50 States. The DEA Laboratory System is reporting that in 2022 approximately 23 per cent of fentanyl powder and seven per cent of fentanyl pills seized by the DEA contained xylazine,” she added.&nbsp;

<h2>Does naloxone work on xylazine overdoses?&nbsp;</h2>

Xylazine does not react to naloxone, but that doesn't imply the opioid-reversing medicine can't be useful if a bystander witnesses an overdose, according to specialists, because xylazine is used in combination with opioids that will react to naloxone. While xylazine has been found in fatal overdoses, it is unknown how much the sedative had a role in the person's death because it is taken in combination with heavier opioids.&nbsp;

Claire Zagorski, a chemist, paramedic and translational scientist in Austin, Texas who spoke to CBS News said&nbsp;that administering naloxone to someone who is not experiencing an opioid overdose would not harm them, hence it is preferable for a bystander to do so if feasible.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

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A horrific new 'zombie' drug that has devastated cities throughout the United States has been discovered in the United Kingdom and has claimed the life of a British factory worker.

A horrific new 'zombie' drug that has devastated cities throughout the United States has been discovered in the United Kingdom and has claimed the life of a British factory worker. Karl Warburton, 43, died in May from the effects of xylazine coupled with other narcotics such as heroin, fentanyl, and cocaine, reported Daily Mail. The West Midlands man died of acute aspiration pneumonitis, a disease commonly caused by breathing pollutants. However, xylazine was recorded as a contributing factor in Warburton's death certificate. The technically legal animal tranquilizer "tranq" is frequently used to cut cocaine, heroin, or fentanyl dependence. As it grows in popularity in the illegal drug market, contributing to an increasing number of overdose deaths, states in the United States are increasingly attempting to restrict access to it. The substance enforcement administration and health authorities have issued cautions against using the substance. While the problem is most visible in Los Angeles, Canadian officials have also warned that tranq is making its way onto their streets. Here's everything you need to know about tranq, including why it's referred to as a flesh-eating zombie medicine and how the United States is trying to regulate it. What is Xylazine? Xylazine is a veterinary medication that is licenced for use as a sedative in large animals. Rompun and Anased are two of its brand names. It is sometimes referred to as a "horse tranquilizer." It needs a veterinarian licence to buy and use, but it is rapidly appearing in Canada's illicit drug supply, frequently without the user's awareness. Other medicines are cut with xylazine since it is an inexpensive filler that can improve opioid potency. What effect does tranq have on people? In humans, xylazine has sedative properties. It alleviates pain, lowers brain activity, and has the potential to lower blood pressure, heart rate, and breathing rate. People who use xylazine may develop open sores anywhere on their body. These wounds can result in hospitalisation, necrosis (rotting tissue), and even amputation, which is why it is referred to as a zombie drug. The drug's wounds look to be "eating away your flesh from the inside out," according to nurses who spoke to Stat News. ALSO WATCH | Gravitas: What is the 'Zombie drug'? Overdoes are also more likely with drugs like fentanyl that have been cut with xylazine. According to Health Canada, xylazine can cause central nervous system depression, respiratory depression, bradycardia, and hypotension in humans, which are comparable to opioid withdrawal symptoms. “When combined with opioids like fentanyl, as is frequently the case, xylazine enhances the life-threatening effect of respiratory depression (slowing or stopping breathing) caused by opioids, increasing the risk of overdose and death,” according to Los Angeles public health officials, as reported by the National Post. ALSO READ | Fentanyl blend with xylazine, the vet medicine, causes havoc in US hot drug zones Unlike fentanyl, no medication or antidote is available to reverse xylazine overdose, like naloxone does for opioids. Experts still recommend that naxolone be administered in the event of a xylazine overdose if opioids are present. “Tranq is basically zombifying people’s bodies,” 28-year-old Sam told Sky News. “Until nine months ago, I never had wounds. Now, there are holes in my legs and feet.” The New York City Department of Health said that 2,668 individuals in New York died in 2021 as a result of xylazine overdoses, and experts worry that the medication might exacerbate the country's current drug pandemic. How are US states responding? Many states in the United States have implemented different measures to limit the spread of the substance. Pennsylvania has added xylazine to its list of banned substances in an effort to strengthen drug restrictions and empower police to prosecute individuals who break them. “We are giving greater tools to law enforcement and others to properly regulate, control and contain these drugs, make arrests and hopefully prosecutions,” Democratic Gov. Josh Shapiro said at a news conference in Philadelphia. Ohio's Republican governor signed an executive order banning xylazine through the state's Board of Pharmacy in March, while West Virginia's Republican governor signed legislation making it a restricted substance. The designations in Pennsylvania, Ohio, and West Virginia enable veterinarians to continue using the medicine to sedate animals, but they impose stricter requirements on how the drug must be handled, recorded, and kept. “Xylazine is making the deadliest drug threat our country has ever faced, fentanyl, even deadlier,” said Anne Milgram, DEA Administrator, who spoke to the National host. “DEA has seized xylazine and fentanyl mixtures in 48 of 50 States. The DEA Laboratory System is reporting that in 2022 approximately 23 per cent of fentanyl powder and seven per cent of fentanyl pills seized by the DEA contained xylazine,” she added. Does naloxone work on xylazine overdoses? Xylazine does not react to naloxone, but that doesn't imply the opioid-reversing medicine can't be useful if a bystander witnesses an overdose, according to specialists, because xylazine is used in combination with opioids that will react to naloxone. While xylazine has been found in fatal overdoses, it is unknown how much the sedative had a role in the person's death because it is taken in combination with heavier opioids. Claire Zagorski, a chemist, paramedic and translational scientist in Austin, Texas who spoke to CBS News said that administering naloxone to someone who is not experiencing an opioid overdose would not harm them, hence it is preferable for a bystander to do so if feasible. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Explained: What is Xylazine? Flesh-eating ‘zombie’ medicine fuelling overdose deaths across US

The United States for the first time, has designated xylazine, a drug, as an "emerging threat". The drug is commonly known as 'tranq'. The US government has asked the Congress for funding in order to fight the drug that is increasingly being linked to surge in overdose deaths.

"This is the first time in our nation's history that a substance is being designated as an emerging threat by any administration," said Rahul Gupta, director of the White House Office of National Drug Control Policy.

Xylazine is an animal tranquilizer and it is used by vets to sedate large animals such as deer and horses.

Though not approved for use in humans, xylazine is mixed with fentanyl, cocaine or heroin and known by street name 'tranq', as per US Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA).

Xylazine consumption can result in lowered blood pressure and critically low levels of heart rate. It can also cause skin ulcers and abscesses. This may further lead to amputation.

Gupta said the federal government will publish a plan within 90 days on ways to combat the overdose scourge caused by xylazine, also known as the "zombie drug."

The plan would look at increasing testing capacity, withdrawal management, treatment protocols and attacking the supply chain of illicit xylazine, he said.

"President Biden remains committed to beating the overdose crisis," Gupta said. "We need support from Congress for this and we'll continue to work with members of both parties on this urgent issue."

(With inputs from agencies)

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The United States for the first time, has designated xylazine, a drug, as an "emerging threat". The drug is commonly known as 'tranq'. The US government has asked the Congress for funding in order to fight the drug that is increasingly being linked to surge in overdose deaths.

The United States for the first time, has designated xylazine, a drug, as an "emerging threat". The drug is commonly known as 'tranq'. The US government has asked the Congress for funding in order to fight the drug that is increasingly being linked to surge in overdose deaths. "This is the first time in our nation's history that a substance is being designated as an emerging threat by any administration," said Rahul Gupta, director of the White House Office of National Drug Control Policy. Xylazine is an animal tranquilizer and it is used by vets to sedate large animals such as deer and horses. Though not approved for use in humans, xylazine is mixed with fentanyl, cocaine or heroin and known by street name 'tranq', as per US Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA). Xylazine consumption can result in lowered blood pressure and critically low levels of heart rate. It can also cause skin ulcers and abscesses. This may further lead to amputation. Gupta said the federal government will publish a plan within 90 days on ways to combat the overdose scourge caused by xylazine, also known as the "zombie drug." The plan would look at increasing testing capacity, withdrawal management, treatment protocols and attacking the supply chain of illicit xylazine, he said. "President Biden remains committed to beating the overdose crisis," Gupta said. "We need support from Congress for this and we'll continue to work with members of both parties on this urgent issue." (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

US labels a drug as 'emerging threat' for the first time

It is a public health crisis that kills hundreds of Americans a day. More than 100,000 Americans die each year from overdoses, mostly from opioids. Fentanyl, cocaine, methamphetamine and now xylazine are the most abused drugs in the United States.

Has America lost the war on drugs?

A new medicine, called Xylazine, or “tranq” has unleashed havoc in cities across the US by causing deadly symptoms including skin rotting.&nbsp;

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) of the nation licenced this "zombie drug" for use in veterinary medicine. It was also used to cut heroin, but most recently, it was found in fentanyl and other illegal substances, according to the New York Post.

An overdose of the non-opioid xylazine prevents a person from being able to react to naloxone, often known as Narcan, the most widely used overdose reversal medication, making it unsafe for humans.

Excessive tiredness, respiratory depression, and open sores are just a few of the effects of the drug that can get worse and spread quickly with repeated contact. If the ulcerations aren't treated, they could develop into eschar, which must be amputated.

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Brooo, what’s happening in the USA🙆🏽‍♂️💀? <a href="https://t.co/hUJCjZ5Xlx">pic.twitter.com/hUJCjZ5Xlx</a>
— Oyindamola🙄 (@dammiedammie35) <a href="https://twitter.com/dammiedammie35/status/1600039127310688256?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 6, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Around 90 per cent of the lab-tested dope sample was found to include xylazine in Philadelphia in 2021, raising the danger of an overdose when coupled with other illegal narcotics. By acting as a "tranq," opioids like fentanyl's high may last longer, which is why xylazine is so appealing.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/explained-stem-cell-transplant-cures-another-hiv-patient-is-this-a-solution-to-the-hiv-crisis-565244">EXPLAINED | Stem cell transplant cures another HIV patient, is this a solution to the HIV crisis?</a>

Yet, some who struggle with substance abuse issues asserted that this new medicine has eliminated "any kind of joy" associated with using drugs.

“Tranq is basically zombifying people’s bodies,” 28-year-old Sam told Sky News. “Until nine months ago, I never had wounds. Now, there are holes in my legs and feet.”

The New York City Department of Health said that 2,668 individuals in New York died in 2021 as a result of xylazine overdoses, and experts worry that the medication might exacerbate the country's current drug pandemic.

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A new medicine, called Xylazine, or “tranq” has unleashed havoc in cities across the US by causing deadly symptoms including skin rotting. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) of the nation licenced this "zombie drug" for use in veterinary medicine.

A new medicine, called Xylazine, or “tranq” has unleashed havoc in cities across the US by causing deadly symptoms including skin rotting. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) of the nation licenced this "zombie drug" for use in veterinary medicine. It was also used to cut heroin, but most recently, it was found in fentanyl and other illegal substances, according to the New York Post. An overdose of the non-opioid xylazine prevents a person from being able to react to naloxone, often known as Narcan, the most widely used overdose reversal medication, making it unsafe for humans. Excessive tiredness, respiratory depression, and open sores are just a few of the effects of the drug that can get worse and spread quickly with repeated contact. If the ulcerations aren't treated, they could develop into eschar, which must be amputated. Disclaimer: WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of photos and videos shared on social media. Brooo, what’s happening in the USA🙆🏽‍♂️💀? pic.twitter.com/hUJCjZ5Xlx — Oyindamola🙄 (@dammiedammie35) December 6, 2022 × Around 90 per cent of the lab-tested dope sample was found to include xylazine in Philadelphia in 2021, raising the danger of an overdose when coupled with other illegal narcotics. By acting as a "tranq," opioids like fentanyl's high may last longer, which is why xylazine is so appealing. ALSO READ | EXPLAINED | Stem cell transplant cures another HIV patient, is this a solution to the HIV crisis? Yet, some who struggle with substance abuse issues asserted that this new medicine has eliminated "any kind of joy" associated with using drugs. “Tranq is basically zombifying people’s bodies,” 28-year-old Sam told Sky News. “Until nine months ago, I never had wounds. Now, there are holes in my legs and feet.” The New York City Department of Health said that 2,668 individuals in New York died in 2021 as a result of xylazine overdoses, and experts worry that the medication might exacerbate the country's current drug pandemic. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

What is Xylazine? How is the medicine turning people into zombies?

Fentanyl overdose has already claimed many lives in the US. Though approved by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, for cancer patients fentanyl is often abused to get dope. However, as this drug menace continues, there is a new beast in Philadelphia city. Its street name is Tranq or Zombie drug. Apparently, Tranq dope is a blend of xylazine, a sedative, and usually an opioid, such as fentanyl. This blend costs less than what the same quantity of fentanyl-only product would cost and this is the reason why people are using this blend to bulk up on illicit fentanyl.&nbsp;

Despite being inexpensive, this mixture is dangerous because xylazine causes wounds to erupt with eschar, which is a scaly dead tissue. And that's not all. These wounds can result in amputation if neglected. This sedative-opioid combination can cause hours-long periods of unconsciousness. Xylazine does not have the same typical opioid overdose reversal therapies as fentanyl, a painkiller.

<h2>Not limited to Philadelphia</h2>

In 36 states and the District of Columbia, xylazine was found in the medication supply, according to a report released in June. Health officials in New York City claim that while xylazine has been discovered in 25% of medication samples, the true saturation level is undoubtedly higher. The Food and Drug Administration sent providers a four-page countrywide xylazine alert in November.

<h2>Horror story of Tracey McCann</h2>

When she was 27 years old, Tracy McCann became dependent on opioids that were administered to her following a serious car accident. Then, in 2020, as the COVID-19 pandemic spread, tranq swept over Philadelphia. After using fentanyl for a prolonged period of time as a pain reliever, Tracey was accustomed to the bruises. But then things started to become nasty. She began to see that the tissue around her wounds was becoming crusty and blackened. She started losing herself because of how addicting the blend had become to her.

Now 39 years of age, she said, “I was sleeping on the sidewalks crying every night, knowing that I was better than that. Someone next to her got shot. A man tried to rape her, but she defended herself with a box cutter. On the hot summer streets, she saw people whose tranq wounds were covered with fleas and maggots."&nbsp;

“I could not pull myself away from that drug," she added. She had already made up her mind, though, and is currently in her fifth month of abstinence at an intense outpatient facility close to St. Louis. She is also in good health. She is simply proud of what she has achieved, something which was unimaginabl at one point in time.&nbsp;

<h2>Xylazine used as veterinary anesthetic</h2>

Xylazine was developed in 1962 as an anaesthetic for veterinary treatments. Because the medication caused respiratory depression and low blood pressure, human trials were stopped. It was probably used as a heroin replacement for addicts starting in the 2000s. According to some public health specialists, domestic xylazine bottles were either diverted from veterinary supply chains or bought online with a veterinary prescription during the pandemic. It gained gained popularity as an inexpensive and simple opioid filler.

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Fentanyl overdose has already claimed many lives in the US. Though approved by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, for cancer patients fentanyl is often abused to get dope.

Fentanyl overdose has already claimed many lives in the US. Though approved by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, for cancer patients fentanyl is often abused to get dope. However, as this drug menace continues, there is a new beast in Philadelphia city. Its street name is Tranq or Zombie drug. Apparently, Tranq dope is a blend of xylazine, a sedative, and usually an opioid, such as fentanyl. This blend costs less than what the same quantity of fentanyl-only product would cost and this is the reason why people are using this blend to bulk up on illicit fentanyl. Despite being inexpensive, this mixture is dangerous because xylazine causes wounds to erupt with eschar, which is a scaly dead tissue. And that's not all. These wounds can result in amputation if neglected. This sedative-opioid combination can cause hours-long periods of unconsciousness. Xylazine does not have the same typical opioid overdose reversal therapies as fentanyl, a painkiller. Not limited to Philadelphia In 36 states and the District of Columbia, xylazine was found in the medication supply, according to a report released in June. Health officials in New York City claim that while xylazine has been discovered in 25% of medication samples, the true saturation level is undoubtedly higher. The Food and Drug Administration sent providers a four-page countrywide xylazine alert in November. Horror story of Tracey McCann When she was 27 years old, Tracy McCann became dependent on opioids that were administered to her following a serious car accident. Then, in 2020, as the COVID-19 pandemic spread, tranq swept over Philadelphia. After using fentanyl for a prolonged period of time as a pain reliever, Tracey was accustomed to the bruises. But then things started to become nasty. She began to see that the tissue around her wounds was becoming crusty and blackened. She started losing herself because of how addicting the blend had become to her. Now 39 years of age, she said, “I was sleeping on the sidewalks crying every night, knowing that I was better than that. Someone next to her got shot. A man tried to rape her, but she defended herself with a box cutter. On the hot summer streets, she saw people whose tranq wounds were covered with fleas and maggots." “I could not pull myself away from that drug," she added. She had already made up her mind, though, and is currently in her fifth month of abstinence at an intense outpatient facility close to St. Louis. She is also in good health. She is simply proud of what she has achieved, something which was unimaginabl at one point in time. Xylazine used as veterinary anesthetic Xylazine was developed in 1962 as an anaesthetic for veterinary treatments. Because the medication caused respiratory depression and low blood pressure, human trials were stopped. It was probably used as a heroin replacement for addicts starting in the 2000s. According to some public health specialists, domestic xylazine bottles were either diverted from veterinary supply chains or bought online with a veterinary prescription during the pandemic. It gained gained popularity as an inexpensive and simple opioid filler. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Fentanyl blend with xylazine, the vet medicine, causes havoc in US hot drug zones

An animal tranquiliser for which there is no antidote has been linked to thousands of drug overdoses across the United States. The muscle relaxant known as Xylazine is used for large animals like horses, cows etc and as per a report by the Mirror, it has been found in 91 per cent of Philadelphia's heroin and fentanyl supplies.

Xylazine which is a muscle relaxant is known as tranq on the streets. It can reportedly prolong the high felt from heroin. However, according to a Vice report citing field epidemiologist Jen Shinefeld, it can also lead to an increase in soft-tissue infections, bone disease, and amputations by causing an outbreak of ulcers and sores on the user's body, as well as substance abuse.

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: The British Parliament is 'rotting with drug abuse'

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Shinefeld explains that&nbsp;xylazine inhibits blood flow, which lengthens the healing process for wounds and raises the risk of additional medical issues like sepsis and endocarditis (inflammation of the heart's inner lining).

According to UCLA researcher Joseph Friedman, who has extensively researched Xylazine, it can cause "tissue death."

"This is black, necrotic tissue destruction."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trying-to-escape-mobilisation-russians-pay-27000-for-seats-on-private-planes-out-of-country-520192" hreflang="en">Trying to escape mobilisation, Russians pay $27,000 for seats on private planes out of country</a>

He added that the area where the drug was injected doesn't always see the development of necrotic tissue, &nbsp;it can present itself everywhere on the body.

Vice reports that the substance was only found in 2 per cent of fatal opioid overdoses in Philadelphia between 2010 and 2015, but that number increased to 31 per cent in 2019.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/lifestyle/news-addiction-expert-says-predisposition-to-alcohol-abuse-can-be-inherited-from-relatives-512609">Predisposition to alcohol abuse is inherited, needs personalised treatment: Addiction expert</a>

According to the Detroit Free Press, the number of drug-related deaths in Michigan rose by 86.8 per cent between 2019 and 2020 before marginally declining in 2021.

(With inputs from agencies)

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An animal tranquiliser for which there is no antidote has been linked to thousands of drug overdoses across the United States. The muscle relaxant known as Xylazine is used for large animals like horses, cows etc and as per a report by the Mirror, it has been found in 91 per cent of Philadelphia's heroin and fentanyl supplies.

An animal tranquiliser for which there is no antidote has been linked to thousands of drug overdoses across the United States. The muscle relaxant known as Xylazine is used for large animals like horses, cows etc and as per a report by the Mirror, it has been found in 91 per cent of Philadelphia's heroin and fentanyl supplies. Xylazine which is a muscle relaxant is known as tranq on the streets. It can reportedly prolong the high felt from heroin. However, according to a Vice report citing field epidemiologist Jen Shinefeld, it can also lead to an increase in soft-tissue infections, bone disease, and amputations by causing an outbreak of ulcers and sores on the user's body, as well as substance abuse. Watch | Gravitas: The British Parliament is 'rotting with drug abuse' Shinefeld explains that xylazine inhibits blood flow, which lengthens the healing process for wounds and raises the risk of additional medical issues like sepsis and endocarditis (inflammation of the heart's inner lining). According to UCLA researcher Joseph Friedman, who has extensively researched Xylazine, it can cause "tissue death." "This is black, necrotic tissue destruction." Also read | Trying to escape mobilisation, Russians pay $27,000 for seats on private planes out of country He added that the area where the drug was injected doesn't always see the development of necrotic tissue, it can present itself everywhere on the body. Vice reports that the substance was only found in 2 per cent of fatal opioid overdoses in Philadelphia between 2010 and 2015, but that number increased to 31 per cent in 2019. Also read | Predisposition to alcohol abuse is inherited, needs personalised treatment: Addiction expert According to the Detroit Free Press, the number of drug-related deaths in Michigan rose by 86.8 per cent between 2019 and 2020 before marginally declining in 2021. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Animal tranquiliser that causes skin rot behind increasing number of drug overdoses in US

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