Xylazine, an animal tranquilizer, is making its way into opioids and other substances in the United States and Canada.
Here is what you need to know:
Health Concerns:
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Decreases heart rate, blood pressure, and breathing rate of humans
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Prolongs the effects of fentanyl, a lethal and potent opioid
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Naloxone does NOT reverse a Xylazine overdose
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No known treatment for Xylazine overdose
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Testing for Xylazine is not widely available
Community Concerns:
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Increases risk for opioid overdoses
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Typically consumed unknowingly or unintentionally
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Increases risk for community-wide bad batches