Is Xylazine Creating a Generation of “Drugged-Out Zombies” in Maine?
2023-08-13
As Maine's drug crisis takes a darker turn, the question that looms large is whether Xylazine is responsible for creating a generation of drugged-out zombies across the state.
Zombie-like sores caused by Xylazine.Photo byTom Gralish - Flickr.
NOTE: Nothing in this article should be considered medical or legal advice. This article is for informational and entertainment purposes only. If you believe a loved one needs medical intervention due to drugs. Contact Health & Human Services or a medical professional for assistance.
This veterinary drug is finding its way into the hands of drug users and dealers with increasing frequency, creating a deadly and worrying scenario. But what exactly is Xylazine, and why is its abuse becoming so rampant?
Like many parts of the U.S., Maine has grappled with an opioid epidemic for years.
The introduction of Xylazine into the drug scene is exacerbating the problem. The low cost, easy accessibility, and potent effects of this drug make it attractive to both users seeking a prolonged, more potent high and dealers looking to cut costs and boost profits. Its rising prevalence in overdose cases paints a grim picture.
As if Fentanyl and Heroin use wasn’t already bad enough, introducing “animal tranquilizers” into the equation has had a far worse effect.
What is Xylazine?
Xylazine, originally formulated as an animal tranquilizer, is primarily used by veterinarians during surgical procedures.
However, due to its sedative properties, it's finding its way into the illicit drug market. It should be stressed that this drug was never intended for human consumption, making its misuse potentially lethal, and the use of known overdose remedies like Narcan and Naloxone is ineffective.
What are the Xylazine side effects?
In animals, Xylazine is employed to calm or sedate, but its effects can be devastating to humans.
Users report feelings of drowsiness, disorientation, and a stupor-like state. Respiratory depression, hypotension, or even coma is not uncommon, fitting the descriptor "drugged out zombies" to a tee. Chronic misuse can lead to physical dependency and a host of health complications.
What’s more, the use of Xylazine leaves the user with severe open sores, much like those seen in movie zombies. These lesions often fester and spread with continued use. However, this could be a valuable sign that your friend needs immediate intervention.
Mixing Xylazine with Heroin & Fentanyl increases profits for dealers & creates drugged-out zombies in our communities
The drug's potent effects are intensified when mixed with opioids like heroin and fentanyl.
This cocktail is not only deadly but also alarmingly profitable for dealers. By adding Xylazine to Fentanyl batches, dealers can stretch their product further while maximizing the perceived potency. This lethal combination is believed to be responsible for a significant chunk of the "drugged out zombies" phenomenon, as users are rendered nearly catatonic and often face fatal overdoses.
Immediate treatment options for Xylazine overdoses are limited
A concerning element in this crisis is the inadequacy of immediate treatments for Xylazine overdoses.
Commonly used opioid overdose reversal agents like Naloxone or Narcan, which have saved countless lives, are largely ineffective against Xylazine since it's an animal tranquilizer, not an opioid. This puts families, friends, and first responders in a challenging position, often leaving them with limited means to counteract the drug's effects.
What can be done?
The growing problem demands a multifaceted approach. Communities, health officials, schools, and law enforcement need to raise awareness about the dangers of Xylazine misuse. Drug education and outreach programs should be expanded, and access to addiction treatment services should be prioritized. Simultaneously, law enforcement must target the sources of Xylazine to curb its influx into the illicit market.
Veterinary services must be made aware that illegal dispensing of Xylazine is dangerous to our communities and could lead to severe legal consequences.
Maine faces a dire situation with the rise of Xylazine in its drug scene, risking a generation of "drugged-out zombies." As the state grapples with this new challenge, a holistic approach combining education, prevention, treatment, and law enforcement is crucial. The hope is that with concerted efforts, Maine can combat this deadly trend and ensure the safety and health of its residents.
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About the author
Stephen Dalton is a native of Old Town, ME, and a retired US Army First Sergeant with a degree in journalism from the University of Maryland. He is a Certified US English Chicago Manual of Style Editor. Top Writer in Travel, Food, Fiction, Transportation, VR, NFL, Design, Creativity, Short Story, and a NewsBreak Community Voice Pro.
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