The Human Resources Center of Edgar and Clark Counties, (HRC), the local Community Mental Health Clinic, is issuing an urgent overdose alert to the community regarding an emerging drug overdose threat. Xylazine, a powerful sedative commonly used in veterinary medicine, has been implicated in an increasing number of overdoses and other health issues.
The U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration issued the original warning to the public about the sharp increase in the trafficking of fentanyl mixed with Xylazine. This dangerous combination increases the risk of a fatal overdose and has resulted in a sharp increase in overdoses.
According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), "Xylazine, a non-opioid veterinary tranquilizer not approved for human use, has been linked to an increasing number of overdose deaths nationwide in the evolving drug addiction and overdose crisis. Studies show people exposed to xylazine often knowingly or unknowingly used it in combination with other drugs, particularly illicit fentanyl.
“Also known as tranq, xylazine is a central nervous system depressant that can cause drowsiness and amnesia and slow breathing, heart rate and blood pressure to dangerously low levels. Taking opioids in combination with xylazine and other central nervous system depressants-like alcohol or benzodiazepines-increases the risk of life-threatening overdose."
Naloxone use is still indicated in known xylazine overdoses since opioids are usually part of the drug mix. However, because naloxone does not work specifically on xylazine, only on opioids that are present in the individual's supply, the patient may not completely be revived or reversed with just naloxone.
The mortality rate is higher if they have xylazine poisoning (in addition to the opioid in their supply) because they require an ER or ICU if they get to the point of needing oxygen/etc. Other potential effects of use are that it causes severe soft tissue infections including abscesses, cellulitis and skin ulceration.
HRC is urging the community to be vigilant and take appropriate precautions to avoid accidental overdose. If you or someone you know is struggling with drug use, HRC offers resources and support to help.
"HRC is committed to providing the community with the necessary resources to combat the increasing threat of drug overdose," said Jonathan Burns, Executive Director of HRC. "We are dedicated to providing comprehensive mental health and substance use services to individuals and families. Our goal is to help our clients achieve their goals and improve their overall well-being."
HRC also provides life-saving overdose reversal medication, Naloxone or Narcan® at no cost and discretely from HRC's lobby at the Forsythe Center in Marshall or the Life Center in Paris.
For more information on this emerging drug overdose threat, please contact HRC at 217-465-4118.
Burns urged everyone to stay safe, and take care of yourself and those around you.
