What is xylazine? A medical toxicologist explains how it increases overdose risk, and why Narcan can still save a life
- Written by Kavita Babu, Professor of Emergency Medicine, UMass Chan Medical School
Although xylazine is not an opioid, naloxone can reverse the effects of the fentanyl and heroin it is often mixed with.AP Photo/Jae C. HongThe U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration issued a warning on Mar. 21, 2023, about an increase in trafficking of fentanyl adulterated with xylazine, which can increase the risk of overdosing on an already deadly...





