The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) released a Health Alert Network Message on May 26, 2023, regarding the increased risk of Xylazine when mixed with illegal drugs. The effects of Xylazine can include drowsiness, reduced heart rate, hypothermia, coma, respiratory depression, and dysrhythmia. The drug comes in powder or liquid form, and when mixed with other drugs, can cause individuals to develop severe soft tissue wounds which can lead to necrotic tissue and the possible need for amputation. Users are often referred to as ‘zombie’ addicts as it is a horrific, flesh-eating drug combination.
Because Xylazine is not an opioid, naloxone (Narcan) will not reverse the risk of fatal overdoses. At this time, the FDA still recommends the use of Narcan for opioid overdoses; and, if a patient does not respond, healthcare professionals should provide appropriate supportive measures.
Our goal is to keep Xylazine out of Flathead County, and we do not have time to lose. School is out and tourists are in, and we need to get the message out with urgency…that to try is to die from this combo.
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