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Description
Where: In May 2024, Public Health Scotland issued an alert about xylazine, which is a novel drug that has been detected in the drug supply in all areas of Scotland.
What: Xylazine is a downer drug. It is used by vets to calm animals and relieve pain. It has been found in the drug supply and has been detected in overdoses and deaths in Scotland.
You may not be aware of the potential presence of xylazine in the drug supply. It is most commonly found cut into brown powders sold as heroin.
In the UK, it has also been detected in the wider drug supply, including in fake painkillers (codeine and tramadol), cocaine, ketamine and THC vapes.
Side Effects: Xylazine slows down your breathing and heart rate. It can cause sudden collapse, drowsiness, loss of coordination, memory loss and nausea. It can also cause severe wounds and skin damage, regardless of how you take it and in parts of your body separate from the injection site.
For further information on this xylazine alert, harm reduction information and other current RADAR alerts, click the website link below.