The United Kingdom has reported its first death linked to the use of the illicit drug xylazine, commonly referred to as the “zombie” drug, raising concerns among experts and prompting overdose warnings. Xylazine, primarily used as a tranquilizer for large animals, has now been found mixed with heroin and is known to cause dangerously low heart rates and the development of severe skin wounds.
Experts in the UK have expressed deep concern about the presence of this drug, emphasizing that there is no safe dose for humans. They are urging drug users to be cautious as xylazine has entered the UK drug supply. The recent case involves the death of 43-year-old Karl Warburton from Solihull, West Midlands, who had a history of illicit drug use. A toxicology report revealed the presence of heroin, fentanyl, cocaine, and xylazine in his system.
According to a report published in the Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine, it is believed that Warburton unintentionally purchased heroin laced with xylazine and fentanyl, unaware of the substances contained within. This case marks the first death associated with xylazine use reported in the UK and even in Europe, signifying the emergence of xylazine in the UK’s illicit drug market.
Xylazine, though approved for veterinary use, is not intended for human consumption. It has become a significant problem in the United States when mixed with heroin and fentanyl, earning it street names such as “tranq” or “tranq dope.” Injecting xylazine directly into the bloodstream can lead to the formation of large open skin ulcers that can rot and potentially necessitate amputation. Furthermore, the drug significantly lowers breathing and heart rates, earning it the moniker of a “flesh-eating zombie drug.”
While xylazine has been prevalent in the illicit drug market in Puerto Rico, the US, and Canada, its detection in the UK is a new development. Standard drug screens in the UK do not typically include xylazine, making it challenging to determine the extent of the xylazine problem. Dr. Caroline Copeland, a lecturer at King’s College London and director of the National Programme on Substance Abuse Deaths, emphasized the importance of investigating how individuals are exposed to the drug and understanding its prevalence.
The case report underlines the necessity of monitoring changes in illicit drug markets and emerging substances. As the fatal and non-fatal doses of xylazine reported in humans overlap, it concludes that there is no safe dose for human consumption. Authorities and healthcare professionals are urged to stay vigilant and address the growing threat posed by xylazine to prevent further harm and fatalities.
