Several state health agencies have released health alerts about the dangers of Xylazine in street drugs as it is being found more often in illicit drugs. The presence of this drug increases the risk of accidental overdose and death. By understanding the effects of Xylazine abuse, you can take the steps to get the help you need before it is too late.
What Is Xylazine?
Xylazine is a sedative and muscle relaxant primarily used on horses but also commonly used in other large animals such as cattle. It is also used by veterinarians when animals need to be anesthetized.
How Is Xylazine Used with Illicit Drugs?
Xylazine is increasingly being used with illicit drugs, including cocaine and meth, to enhance their effects. When mixed with these substances, Xylazine can increase the intensity of the high and help users stay awake for longer periods of time. It has also been linked to instances of overdose due to its sedative properties and should not be taken.
How Is Xylazine Being Combined with Street Drugs?
Xylazine is a liquid drug that can be cooked down and transformed into a powdery substance. The liquid form of the drug can be combined with other liquid street drugs and injected intravenously.
When it is transformed into a powder, it is used to cut another substance, such as cocaine or heroin. Additionally, the powdery substance can be pressed into tablets and taken orally.
Are Drug Users Aware of Xylazine in Their Drugs?
Most drug users are unaware that Xylazine is in their drugs. As a result, it is often added without the user’s knowledge. Furthermore, there have been cases where people were unaware of its presence until experiencing adverse reactions, overdosing, or dying.
Short-Term Effects of Xylazine Abuse
Short-term effects of Xylazine abuse by humans may include drowsiness, dizziness, confusion, impaired coordination and judgment, slowed reflexes, nausea, and vomiting. Higher doses can lead to more serious side effects such as respiratory distress or even coma.
Long-Term Effects of Xylazine Abuse
The long-term effects of Xylazine abuse by humans are not well studied but can include addiction and physical dependence. Other potential long-term effects could include depression, changes in mood or behavior, impaired cognitive functions, such as memory or concentration problems, and an increased risk of overdose due to tolerance.
What Drugs Do People Mix with Xylazine?
- Cocaine: Cocaine is a strong stimulant that can be combined with Xylazine to increase the intensity of its effects, including alertness and euphoria.
- Methamphetamine: Meth is another stimulant drug commonly mixed with Xylazine to enhance its effects, such as increased energy and alertness.
- Heroin: Heroin is an opioid drug mixed with Xylazine to produce a more intense high or sedative effect.
- MDMA (Ecstasy): MDMA is a psychedelic drug often mixed with Xylazine for its stimulating properties and ability to create feelings of euphoria and drive up arousal levels in some users.
- Alcohol: Alcohol is a depressant that can be mixed with Xylazine to produce a more intense sedative effect. This combination can lead to serious health risks.
- Fentanyl: Fentanyl is an opioid being mixed with Xylazine to produce a powerful sedative effect. This can be a deadly combination, resulting in heart failure, respiratory failure, and death.
- Benzodiazepines: Benzos are a class of drugs commonly used to treat anxiety and insomnia. However, they are misused and are mixed with Xylazine to create a more powerful sedative effect, resulting in increased risks of overdose.
Fentanyl Combinations and Effects
Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid that is 100 times stronger than morphine. It is also increasingly found in street drugs and is just as deadly as Xylanzine. When it is combined with Xylazine, the dangerous effects of both drugs are significantly increased, resulting in a high probability of overdose and death.
Many illicit drug manufacturers are using fentanyl and Xylanzine due to their cheaper costs while not informing people obtaining their drug that they contain these substances. Sadly, this is causing an increase in overdose and death rates.
Xylanzine Withdrawal Effects
Xylazine withdrawal effects in humans can include anxiety, agitation, restlessness, insomnia, nausea, and vomiting. In more severe cases of Xylazine dependence or addiction, symptoms may also include tremors and seizures. It is important to seek medical help if you are experiencing any of these symptoms, as they can be dangerous. Withdrawal from Xylazine should not be attempted on one’s own as it could lead to serious health risks or even death.
Xylanzine Detox
The Xylazine detox timeline in humans can vary depending on the individual. Generally, it can take up to several weeks for the body to completely eliminate Xylazine from its system. During this time, individuals experience various withdrawal symptoms that can range in intensity and severity. Therefore, it is crucial to seek medical detox if you want help for your substance use problems. Simply quitting on your own can lead to serious health risks or even death.
Personalized Detox and Rehab from Xylanzine in Columbus, OH
Ohio Addiction Recovery Center in Columbus offers customizable detox and rehab programs for Xylanzie use disorders. Start your recovery by contacting us today.
