London, United Kingdom – A concerning trend has emerged in the UK, as researchers warn of a dangerous substance being unknowingly consumed by individuals seeking relief from pain, anxiety, and insomnia through cannabis vapes and illicit sedatives. This substance, known as xylazine, has been linked to skin ulcers, overdoses, and multiple deaths since 2022.
The presence of xylazine has been steadily increasing in the UK, according to research from King’s College London. Unlike in the US where it is commonly mixed with strong opioids like heroin or fentanyl, in the UK, xylazine has been found in counterfeit prescription drugs and vapes containing psychoactive ingredients found in cannabis.
Dr. Caroline Copeland, senior author of the study, expressed alarm at the growing use of xylazine and its potential risks. She highlighted the fact that many individuals purchasing heroin may unknowingly be exposed to xylazine, increasing the risk of overdose. The findings published in the Addiction journal revealed that xylazine was detected in 16 individuals, 11 of whom died as a result.
The dangerous combination of xylazine with opioids has proven to be fatal in most cases, emphasizing the need for increased awareness and preventive measures. As xylazine does not remain in the body for long, the actual number of deaths could be higher than reported.
A non-opioid sedative, painkiller, and muscle relaxant used in veterinary medicine, xylazine poses significant health risks to humans, including the potential development of skin ulcers if injected directly into the bloodstream. To address the emerging threat posed by xylazine, researchers recommend increased toxicology testing and harm reduction interventions for individuals using drugs.
The rise of xylazine follows a concerning pattern of drug adulteration and related deaths, prompting calls for expanded harm reduction strategies for drug users. As authorities work to address the issue, efforts are underway to classify xylazine as a class C drug in an effort to combat its prevalence in the illicit drug market.