Tranq Alert: What Every Clinician Should Know About Xylazine

Xylazine, an animal tranquilizer not approved for human use, is increasingly found in street opioids, complicating overdoses and causing devastating wounds. In this episode, we unpack the evidence:– Why naloxone often fails– The unique dangers of xylazine toxicity– What the latest research reveals about toxicity, dependence, withdrawal, and treatment– Real-world evidence-based recommendations Based on the 2025 systematic review by Owusu et al.This is urgent. This is real. Listen and be informed.#TheTransformedMindsPodcast #Xylazine #HarmReduction #AddictionPsychiatryShow resource links:Owusu P, et al. Management of Xylazine Toxicity, Overdose, Dependence and Withdrawal: A Systematic Review. 2024.https://mattersnetwork.org/request-test-strips/https://mattersnetwork.org/supplies/#vendingmachineshttps://www.health.ny.gov/diseases/aids/general/opioid_overdose_prevention/training_calendar.htmhttps://providerdirectory.aidsinstituteny.org