Massachusetts Battles Rising Threat of Xylazine in Street Drugs
Massachusetts officials are escalating efforts to curb the presence of xylazine, an animal tranquilizer, in the state’s illicit drug supply. This dangerous substance, often mixed with opioids, is intensifying overdose risks and creating severe health complications for users.
Understanding the Xylazine Crisis
For five years, the state has been grappling with xylazine, a white powder increasingly found in street drugs like heroin and fentanyl. Initially used in veterinary practices, xylazine is now a common cutting agent, causing dangerous skin wounds and intense withdrawal symptoms.
The state has assembled a commission dedicated to regulating xylazine’s distribution and production. This proactive measure aims to prevent further contamination of the unregulated opioid market. Lawmakers are prioritizing public health and safety.
“Xylazine has shifted from being just an adulterant to being a common component in our unregulated opioid supplies,” stated Dr. Raagini Jawa, an addiction medicine specialist from the University of Pittsburgh Medical School.
Combating the Spread and Helping Users
To help those impacted by xylazine, Massachusetts is expanding care services and improving access to drug testing. The strategy also involves efforts to reduce the stigma linked to substance use disorders. The aim is to provide more information and options for those seeking help.
“It’s scary to not know what’s in a substance that you or someone you love is using, and people want to stay safe and stay healthy, so there’s a need and a wish for more information and more options,” said Dr. Sarah Wakeman, the Senior Medical Director of the Substance Use Disorder Commission at Mass General Brigham Hospital.
—Dr. Sarah Wakeman, Senior Medical Director of the Substance Use Disorder Commission at Mass General Brigham Hospital
While Narcan, an overdose reversal drug, is ineffective against xylazine’s effects, it should still be administered in all suspected overdose cases. In 2023, there were over 100,000 drug overdose deaths in the U.S. (CDC, 2024).
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