The use of the flesh-eating zombie drug known as tranq has sparked fears in the UK due to its deadly impact in the United States, where addicts have been described as living like zombies. This powerful animal tranquillizer has become a deadly recreational drug in the US, causing users to experience painful contortions and flesh-rotting skin sores, leading to suffocation. Xylazine, the main component of tranq, has been found mixed with opioids, counterfeit prescription medication, cannabis vapes, and cocaine. A study found that xylazine was to blame for one death in the UK and had potentially contributed to several more. It is a major concern in the US, and researchers have warned of its resulting public health threat expanding to the UK.
The presence of xylazine in the UK was identified after toxicologists noticed a sudden increase in cases, with 35 instances reported in England, Scotland, and Wales by August 2023. The drug was found in toxicology reports from 16 samples, including 11 deceased individuals. Although xylazine use is not commonly included in standard drug screenings, researchers have called for increased awareness among healthcare providers, coroners, and pathologists to detect its prevalence accurately. The public health threat associated with xylazine has raised alarm bells in the UK, as a wider demographic of drug users beyond heroin addicts may be exposed to its harmful effects.
Dr. Caroline Copeland, a senior author of the study, emphasized the need for proactive measures to address the emerging use of xylazine in the UK. She highlighted the importance of introducing xylazine test strips, enhancing awareness among healthcare providers, and conducting toxicology testing to determine the drug’s true prevalence. Comparisons have been drawn with the situation in Philadelphia, where swift actions were taken to address the epidemic of drug abuse. The UK government has announced plans to classify xylazine as a Class C drug, imposing stringent penalties on those involved in its distribution to deter further proliferation of the substance.
Efforts to combat the spread of xylazine include making xylazine test strips available, among other preventive measures recommended by Dr. Copeland. By detecting and addressing cases of xylazine use swiftly, healthcare providers can minimize the drug’s harmful effects on individuals. The need for enhanced toxicology testing to accurately identify xylazine in relevant cases and track its prevalence in the UK has been emphasized. The government’s decision to classify xylazine as a controlled substance reflects the seriousness of the public health threat posed by the drug. Collaboration between healthcare professionals, law enforcement agencies, and policymakers is essential to effectively address the challenges associated with xylazine use in the UK.
The presence of xylazine in the UK’s illicit drug market has raised significant concerns among experts and policymakers due to its potential consequences on public health. The rapid spread of this deadly drug underscores the need for coordinated efforts to prevent and counter its impact on vulnerable populations. By raising awareness, enhancing testing procedures, and implementing stricter measures to control its distribution, the UK can mitigate the risks associated with xylazine use and protect its citizens from the harmful effects of this dangerous substance. Efforts to address the emerging threat of xylazine use in the UK must prioritize the health and well-being of individuals affected by addiction and substance abuse.
