The Rising Threat of Xylazine: A Dangerous ‘Zombie Drug’ Smuggled Across the Southern Border

The Rising Threat of Xylazine: A Dangerous ‘Zombie Drug’ Smuggled Across the Southern Border

A tranquilizer known as xylazine, often referred to as the ‘zombie drug’, is increasingly being manufactured and smuggled across the U.S. southern border. This alarming trend has drawn the attention of health experts, particularly Dr. Joseph Friedman, who has dedicated years to studying the substance.

Understanding Xylazine and Its Origins

Veterinarians commonly use xylazine as a tranquilizer for animals. During the 2010s, it initially gained notoriety on the streets, primarily due to thefts from veterinary supplies. Its use was most prevalent on the East Coast during this period. However, the dynamics have shifted significantly as xylazine is now being mass-produced and imported from other countries.

Dr. Friedman has highlighted critical evidence indicating that xylazine is making its way into the United States through illegal channels at the southern border. He noted that this trend poses several challenges not only to public health but also to law enforcement and border security.

Insights from Recent Studies

While the exact ratio of smuggled versus stolen xylazine remains unclear, Dr. Friedman’s latest research offers essential insights into the drug’s growing prevalence in border cities like Tijuana and southern California. According to his findings, xylazine has been found mixed with fentanyl, particularly in Tijuana, which signals a troubling trend.

“Our study documented its presence in fentanyl mixtures in Tijuana, Mexico, and it is also being identified more broadly across San Diego and southern California,” Dr. Friedman reported. This alarming development has raised red flags amongst health authorities across the continent.

Government Acknowledgment of the Threat

Several governments, including those of the United States, Chile, and Mexico, have recognized xylazine as a significant and emerging threat to public health. Its impact on the ongoing overdose crisis is profound, leading to increased fatalities and compounding the already critical situation surrounding opioid use.

According to Dr. Friedman’s research, the use of xylazine in combination with fentanyl has been particularly dangerous. The drug induces a ‘zombie-like’ state in users, which can lead to severe health complications. It constricts blood vessels, restricts oxygen flow, and results in debilitating abscesses that threaten users’ lives.

The Danger of Co-Use with Fentanyl

One of the most concerning aspects of xylazine is its unique resistance to naloxone, a medication traditionally used to reverse opioid overdoses. This makes the drug particularly lethal, especially given its frequent combination with fentanyl. Dr. Friedman notes that in over 98% of cases where xylazine was detected, it co-occurred with fentanyl.

This combination significantly raises the risks associated with overdose incidents. The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) has recently highlighted this alarming trend, pointing out that xylazine is exacerbating the deadliest drug crisis the nation has faced.

Statistics Reveal Escalating Challenges

Recent statistics paint a daunting picture. A study conducted by Dr. Friedman indicates that the prevalence of xylazine in overdose deaths rose from 3.6% in 2015 to 6.7% in 2020. Furthermore, a study released by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in 2022 stated that xylazine’s prevalence in opioid-related deaths increased from 2.9% in January 2019 to a staggering 10.9% by June 2022.

In response to these alarming trends, the DEA issued a public safety alert in 2023. They have continuously emphasized that xylazine poses an unprecedented risk in the context of fentanyl use, marking a significant public health crisis.

Government Response and Future Actions

Efforts to combat the smuggling and distribution of xylazine are intensifying. In particular, the DEA has reported seizures of xylazine and fentanyl mixtures in nearly every state, underscoring the widespread nature of the threat. Specifically, in 2022, the DEA Laboratory System noted that approximately 23% of fentanyl powder and 7% of fentanyl pills seized contained xylazine.

As the situation evolves, local, state, and federal authorities continue to implement measures aimed at curbing both the supply and demand of xylazine and related substances. Ongoing collaboration is critical to address this growing public health concern.

Rethinking Strategy in Overdose Prevention

The rise of xylazine necessitates a reevaluation of overdose prevention strategies. Medical professionals, policymakers, and law enforcement must work together to develop comprehensive approaches that account for the complexities introduced by new drugs like xylazine. Improved education on the dangers of polydrug use—combining substances like xylazine and fentanyl—should also become a priority.

As xylazine’s presence expands, understanding its effects and risks will be vital in safeguarding communities. A unified effort aimed at prevention, treatment, and law enforcement can play a critical role in reversing the trends associated with this emerging drug threat.

Final Thoughts

The increasing smuggling of xylazine across the southern border represents a growing crisis for public health and safety in the United States. With its concurrent rise alongside fentanyl, it is essential for society to be aware of the dangers posed by this ‘zombie drug.’

Effective responses will require coordinated efforts from all sectors, including health professionals, law enforcement, and policymakers. As this situation unfolds, public awareness and proactive strategies will be the keys to minimizing the impact of this pervasive threat.

Fox News Digital contributed to this report.