Xylazine Overdose

Although many drugs have the potential to cause an overdose, xylazine is especially dangerous in this regard as it is meant for large animals not humans. In this article we will explore what xylazine is, can you overdose on xylazine, and xylazine reversal.

What is Xylazine? 

Xylazine, also known as “tranq” or “tranq dope,” is a non-opiate sedative, pain reliever, and muscle relaxant used in veterinary (animal) medicine. While xylazine is not approved for human use, it has unfortunately been misused and mixed with other drugs in recreational use. In such cases, it can pose serious health risks, including extreme sedation, slowed heart rate, difficulty breathing and possible death. Xylazine may be more commonly found in illegal drug mixes and identified in fatal overdoses than reported. This is because many regions nationwide do not test for xylazine in forensic labs or toxicology screenings.

With the easy ability to buy xylazine without verification for veterinary needs and an affordable price ranging from $6 to $20 per kilogram, xylazine has seamlessly integrated into blends with fentanyl, cocaine, or heroin. The addition of xylazine in these mixes increases profitability for drug traffickers. While a considerable number of users remain oblivious to the inclusion of xylazine in their drug concoctions, it has garnered appeal among those who desire an extended duration of euphoria. Conversely, some individuals within the drug-using community opt to steer clear of xylazine due to concerns about potential effects or the perceived dampening of the euphoric experience.

What is Xylazine Reversal? 

While there is xylazine reversal medication for animals, there are no xylazine reversal medications for humans. This means that if someone has been accidentally exposed to or misused xylazine, there will be no antidote for their xylazine overdose. Medical professionals would need to manage the symptoms and provide supportive care based on the individual's condition. Since xylazine is often mixed with opioids, medical personnel or laymen need to be on call with naloxone to reverse the effects of the opioids.

Treatment of xylazine toxicity typically involves addressing the symptoms and providing supportive measures such as maintaining airway, breathing, and circulation. Activated charcoal may be administered via nasogastric or orogastric tubes in certain cases to help prevent further absorption of the drug. 

How Much Xylazine Will Cause Overdose?

Since xylazine is meant for large animals and not humans, xylazine has a narrow therapeutic range, meaning that the difference between a therapeutic dose and a toxic dose can be small. The effects of xylazine can vary among individuals, and its toxicity can lead to severe consequences, including respiratory depression, cardiovascular collapse, and even death.

If someone is suspected of ingesting or being exposed to xylazine, it is critical to seek immediate medical attention. Medical professionals will assess the individual's condition and provide appropriate care to manage symptoms and complications associated with xylazine toxicity. If you or a loved one is at risk for a tranq overdose, reach out to us at Avenues Recovery so we can guide you on your path to recovery.

What Are Xylazine Overdose Symptoms? 

Symptoms of xylazine overdose in humans, also known as ‘tranq overdose’, may include: 

• Central nervous system depression
• Inability or difficulty breathing
• Low blood pressure
• Slow heart rate
• Hypothermia
• Gastrointestinal distress

What Is the Xylazine Overdose Treatment? 

Recovery from xylazine exposure or overdose would depend on the severity of the situation and the promptness of medical intervention. Here's what recovery might involve:

•  Medical Assessment: Upon arrival at a medical facility, healthcare professionals will conduct a thorough assessment of the individual's condition. This may include monitoring vital signs, assessing respiratory function, and checking cardiovascular status. In addition, medicines like benzos, clonidine, dexmedetomidine, tizanidine or guanfacine may be administered to manage symptoms. 
• Supportive Care: Treatment for xylazine toxicity is primarily supportive, as there is no specific antidote. Supportive care may involve providing respiratory support through assisted ventilation, the administration of fluids to address low blood pressure, and managing other symptoms. 
• Monitoring: Continuous monitoring of vital signs, including heart rate, blood pressure, and oxygen saturation, is essential during the recovery period. This helps healthcare providers gauge the effectiveness of interventions and respond to any changes in the individual's condition. 
• Activated Charcoal: In some cases, healthcare providers may administer activated charcoal to limit further absorption of xylazine. This is often done if the exposure occurred recently. 
• Observation Period: The individual may be observed in a medical setting until healthcare professionals are confident that the effects of xylazine have diminished, and there is no longer a risk of complications.
• Psychological Support: Depending on the circumstances surrounding the xylazine exposure, individuals may benefit from psychological support. This could include counseling or therapy to address any underlying issues related to substance use.

What Does Recovery From Xylazine Look Like?

• Cleaning out the stomach: Sometimes, doctors wash out the stomach to remove any remaining xylazine.
•  Activated Charcoal: Occasionally given to absorb any leftover xylazine. 
• Treating Symptoms: Doctors treat any issues that come up, like helping with breathing, managing blood pressure, or treating seizures.
•  Intravenous Fluids: To keep the person hydrated and help their kidneys. 
• Close Monitoring: The person needs monitoring to handle any problems caused by taking xylazine.
• Wound Treatment: Xylazine causes wounds and tissue damage, which require medical treatment to avoid possible amputation.
• Rehab treatment: In the case of addiction to xylazine or xylazine mixed with opioids, residential addiction treatment can get to the root of the addiction and help a person avoid future overdoses.

If you or a loved one suffer from xylazine addiction, reach out to us at Avenues Recovery so we can guide you on your path to recovery. Our highly trained staff are experts in the field of addiction and are waiting to help you. We have helped thousands of people overcome their addiction and we can help you too. Contact us today to experience high-quality, caring and professional care. Experience utmost support every step of the way to sobriety.