‘Zombie drug’ makes Md. opioid crisis worse

The opioid epidemic in Maryland has entered a new and uncertain phase. Xylazine — also called “tranq” and “zombie drug” — is showing up more and more in the illicit drug supply across the state. While scientists can detect the animal sedative, there’s still a lot doctors don’t know about the drug: how it affects humans and how to best treat it. During an exclusive interview on the “DMV Download” podcast, Maryland’s Special Secretary for Opioid Response Emily Keller and Medical Director at the Center for Harm Reduction Services at Maryland Department of Health Dr. Malik Burnett explain what’s known about this drug, what’s still unknown and how the state plans to combat it.
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