Xylazine- Initially thought to be a 'contaminant' in the fentanyl supply, xylazine is now being intentionally added into (cut into) the fentanyl supply, amongst other substances it's being cut into as well. It is said to 'give fentanyl legs', lengthening, in a synergistic manner, the effects of fentanyl. Since it is not an opioid, it does not respond to naloxone (but stay tuned for newer studies that do question this a bit), thus making treating an overdose much harder- BUT never stop giving the naloxone if there's any question! Xylazine also has a very classic necrotizing skin lesion side effect, also contributing to the morbidity and mortality of those suffering from this disease. 

For questions, comments, episode recommendations or requests or to learn more, email us at: [email protected]
Twitter: @A2RPodcast
Facebook: Addiction2Recovery Podcast
Instagram: Addiction2RecoveryPodcast