The “Zombie Drug”: Xylazine’s Dangers & Rise of Tranq Mixes
In the ongoing battle against the opioid crisis, a new and deeply alarming trend has emerged: xylazine, often dubbed the “zombie drug.” Originally intended for veterinary use as a powerful sedative for large animals, xylazine is now making its way into the illicit drug supply—frequently mixed with fentanyl. The result is a dangerous and unpredictable combination that’s wreaking havoc on communities and putting people who use drugs at an even greater risk.
At Pacific Breeze Recovery, we believe education is key to prevention, awareness, and healing. In this blog, we’re breaking down what xylazine is, why it’s so dangerous, the stigma tied to the media’s “zombie drug” label, and how we can support people facing this growing threat.
What Is Xylazine?
Xylazine is a non-opioid veterinary tranquilizer not approved for human use. It has a potent sedative effect, which is why it’s used in veterinary medicine to calm or anesthetize animals like horses and cattle. Unfortunately, drug dealers have started mixing xylazine into street drugs, especially opioids like fentanyl, to enhance their effects and cut costs. This mix, sometimes called “tranq dope,” is also fueling the rise of what the media calls the “zombie drug” phenomenon, due to xylazine’s heavy sedation and flesh-eating side effects.
The DEA has reported seizing xylazine-fentanyl mixtures in 48 states, and nearly one in four fentanyl powder samples tested by the DEA in 2022 contained xylazine.
Why Is Xylazine So Dangerous?
The biggest danger of xylazine is that it’s not an opioid—so the life-saving overdose reversal medication naloxone (Narcan) doesn’t work on it. If someone overdoses on a mix of fentanyl and xylazine, Narcan may reverse the opioid effects, but it won’t do anything about the sedation caused by xylazine. That can leave someone unconscious or struggling to breathe even after Narcan is administered.
Another serious risk is the way xylazine affects the body when injected. People who use drugs containing xylazine often develop large, open wounds, sometimes far from the injection site. These wounds can become severely infected and even lead to necrosis (the rotting of flesh), which may result in amputations if not treated. The exact cause isn’t fully understood yet, but the link between xylazine and these skin ulcers is clear and concerning.
The Problem with Calling It the “Zombie Drug”
If you’ve read any news articles about xylazine, you’ve probably seen it called the “zombie drug.” The term refers to the extreme sedation it causes and the horrifying appearance of untreated wounds. But this nickname does more harm than good.
Using language like “zombie” dehumanizes people who are struggling with substance use. It reinforces stigma by painting them as soulless or scary, rather than as human beings in need of care and support. Research, including work by Jeanette Bowles and colleagues, shows that this kind of media framing can discourage people from seeking medical attention—especially if they already feel judged or unwelcome in healthcare settings.
When the public, media, and even medical professionals internalize stigmatizing language, it creates a cycle of harm. People who use drugs may avoid hospitals or addiction treatment because they fear being treated poorly. In the case of xylazine, this can be catastrophic—wounds go untreated, infections spread, and opportunities for recovery are missed.
Why Xylazine Is on the Rise
So why is xylazine suddenly everywhere? It comes down to money and availability. It’s cheap, easy to get, and not currently a controlled substance at the federal level, which means dealers can use it to stretch their product without much legal risk. Mexican cartels, particularly the Sinaloa and Jalisco groups, are heavily involved in the trafficking of fentanyl and xylazine mixes, often using precursor chemicals from China.
The scary part is that users often don’t know they’re taking xylazine. There are no clear markers, and the drug test strips commonly used for fentanyl don’t detect xylazine. This makes every dose more dangerous, especially for those who have recently relapsed or are unaware of the new risks in the drug supply.
Harm Reduction & Treatment: A Better Way Forward
While the rise of xylazine is frightening, there are things we can do to reduce harm and protect lives:
- Administer Narcan anyway: Even though it won’t reverse xylazine, it can still counteract any fentanyl in the mix.
- Seek medical attention: Skin ulcers and other wounds need immediate care to prevent serious infections.
- Avoid using alone: Always use with someone who can call for help in an emergency.
- Stay informed: Keep up with changes in the drug supply. New trends like tranq mixes are evolving quickly.
At Pacific Breeze Recovery, we also offer evidence-based, compassionate care for those navigating addiction and relapse. Our Fentanyl & Opioid Detox program addresses the complex challenges of opioid use in today’s landscape, including polysubstance use involving xylazine. We provide medical, clinical, and holistic treatment options to support every aspect of healing.
We also recognize the importance of preventing future relapses. Our Relapse Prevention program helps individuals understand new drug threats and build the skills needed to maintain long-term sobriety
Facing the “Zombie Drug” Crisis with Compassion and Care
Xylazine is yet another layer in the already complicated overdose crisis. It’s a potent drug with serious consequences, especially when mixed with fentanyl. But perhaps just as dangerous is the stigma that comes with it. Labels like “zombie drug” may make headlines, but they hurt real people who need our compassion, not our judgment.
We all have a role to play in reducing stigma and supporting recovery. Whether you’re someone struggling with addiction, a loved one, or just someone trying to understand more, know that help is available.
If you or someone you care about is affected by substance use or wants to learn more about safe and supportive recovery options, reach out to Pacific Breeze Recovery today. Our team is here to guide you every step of the way.
Need help now? Contact us today to learn more about our treatment programs or speak with a caring member of our team.
