Deadly New Street Drug Found In Maine Can Cause Rotting Flesh

Over the last few years, we have all heard so many tragic, drug-related, stories that most of us have lost count.  Each year, hundreds of Mainer's live are cut short by overdoses.  Fathers, sons, mothers, daughters...  People in all walks of life have been affected.  Their stories are tragedies.

This, however, is like something out of a horror movie.

According to an article in the Bangor Daily News, investigations done by law enforcement are finding a new drug cut in with recent batches.

Xylazine, known on the streets as "tranq", was first discovered in the State of Maine in 2021.  However, it has been found more frequently in recent months.

What is Xylazine?

According to the DEA, Xylazine is powerful sedative that has been approved for vetrinary use in the United States.  In humans, it can cause trouble breathing, slowed heartbeat, and lower blood pressure.

One of the most dangerous things about the drug is that, because it is not an opioid, NARCAN does not reverse the effects of the drug.

Here's the really horrifying part of the drug - when it is injected it can cause necrosis around the injection site.  Yes, that means it can literally cause your flesh to rot.

How prevalent is it?

The Drug Enforcement Agency reports that it has been found in 48 of 50 states.

The website, says, in part:

The DEA Laboratory System is reporting that in 2022 approximately 23% of fentanyl powder and 7% of fentanyl pills seized by the DEA contained xylazine

So far, 25 of the over 260 overdose deaths in Maine in 2023 were caused by Xylazine.

If you are dealing with a substance abuse problem, please reach out to get help.  Get more details HERE