Xylazine, commonly known as "tranq" or the "zombie drug," is a potent non-opioid sedative, pain reliever, and muscle relaxant. While it is FDA-approved for veterinary use in animals like horses and cattle, it is not approved for human use and can be life-threatening. [1, 2, 3, 4]
Veterinary Use
- Purpose: Primarily used by veterinarians for sedation, anesthesia, and handling large animals.
- Common Brands: Sold under trade names such as Rompun, Anased, and Sedazine.
- Emetic: Often used in cats to induce vomiting. [2, 3, 5]
Misuse and the "Zombie Drug" Phenomenon
Xylazine has increasingly appeared in the illicit drug supply, particularly in the United States, where it is often mixed with fentanyl to prolong its effects. It earned the nickname "zombie drug" due to its severe side effects: [1, 6, 7]
- Severe Skin Ulcers: Chronic use causes necrotic skin wounds and abscesses that can occur anywhere on the body, sometimes leading to amputation if untreated.
- Extreme Sedation: Users may appear unresponsive or "zombie-like" for hours due to profound central nervous system depression. [1, 6, 7, 8]
Risks and Overdose
- Naloxone Ineffectiveness: Because xylazine is not an opioid, the overdose reversal drug naloxone (Narcan) does not reverse its effects. However, naloxone should still be administered during a suspected overdose because xylazine is almost always mixed with opioids like fentanyl.
- Vital Function Depression: It can cause dangerously low blood pressure, slowed heart rate, and respiratory depression.
- Withdrawal: Quitting can lead to severe withdrawal symptoms including extreme anxiety, agitation, and rapid heart rate. [1, 9, 10, 11, 12]
Purchasing Information
- Legality: In many regions, including the US, it requires a veterinary license to purchase legally.
- Availability: Illicitly, it is often bought cheaply online as a powder or liquid.
- Representative Offers:
- Xylazine Injection 10 Ml: Available at ASRT Agencies for approximately ₹257. [2, 3, 5, 6]
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