In recent months, a drug known as Xylazine, also referred to as “Tranq” on the street, has been causing concern in New York. This drug is a central nervous system depressant that can cause drowsiness and amnesia and slow breathing, heart rate, and blood pressure. It is typically used in veterinary medicine, but it has been found mixed with fentanyl in illicit drugs.
The presence of Xylazine in illicit drugs has caused an increase in overdose deaths across New York. Senator Chuck Schumer recently warned of the dangers of this drug saying it could make fentanyl “seem tame”. He went on to describe it as a “skin-rotting zombie drug” trafficked from Mexico.
The effects of Xylazine are particularly dangerous when combined with other drugs such as fentanyl or heroin because it can amplify their effects and increase the risk of overdose. It has been linked to dozens of deaths across New York since its presence was first detected last year.
Recently, test strips have become available that can detect the presence of Xylazine in drug supplies. These tests cost only $2 each and are being hailed as a first line of defense against this deadly drug. They work by detecting the unique chemical signature left by Xylazine which allows users to know if their drugs contain this dangerous substance before they take them.
The availability of these test strips is an important step towards reducing the number of overdoses caused by Xylazine-laced drugs but more needs to be done to address this growing problem. Law enforcement agencies need to continue working together to identify sources of illegal drugs containing Xylazine and take steps to reduce its availability on the streets.
It is also important for people who use illicit drugs to be aware of the risks associated with taking them and take steps to protect themselves from harm whenever possible. This includes avoiding using alone, having naloxone available in case an overdose occurs, not mixing substances together, and always testing for contaminants like Xylazine before using any drug supply that may be contaminated with it or other dangerous substances like fentanyl or heroin.
Xylazine is a dangerous substance that can have devastating consequences if misused or taken without proper precautions being taken beforehand. It is essential that people understand the risks associated with taking this drug so they can make informed decisions about their own safety when using any kind of illicit substance.
Leave a Comment