The Statewide Effort to Combat Xylazine

August 06, 2024

The Pennsylvania Department of Health is highlighting the need to address the emergence of a new drug in the state’s illicit drug supply.

Last week, state health leaders visited the UPMC Center for Addiction Recovery to announce the administration’s plans to distribute 50,000 xylazine wound care kits across the commonwealth.

“Xylazine’s emergence in Pennsylvania’s illicit drug supply is a major public health concern,” said Secretary of Health Dr. Debra Bogen. “Because the wounds caused by xylazine are more complicated and severe than those traditionally seen in people who use other drugs, there is a need for quick action, new medical protocols, and access to appropriate self-care wound supplies.”

Here’s what you need to know:

• The issue:  Pennsylvania saw a 50 percent increase in the number of xylazine-related overdose deaths between 2022 and 2023.
• Public health risk:  The drug contributed to overdose deaths in 51 counties. It also can cause severe skin lesions and wounds that can be difficult to treat, while spreading quickly.
• Wound care kits:  These products allow users to properly clean and cover wounds to promote healing.
• Nationwide threat:  During 2023, the White House officially designated Xylazine combined with fentanyl as an emerging threat to the U.S.
• Quotable:  “Coming to the Center for wound treatment may help get patients in the door—even if they aren’t ready to treat their addiction, they have a better understanding of the services that are available and receive education,” said Adam Barnathan, DO, Center for Addiction Recovery at UPMC in Central Pennsylvania.“ Access to pre-packaged wound kits allows patients flexibility to manage their wounds, in collaboration with the Center.”

Additional information from the event is available online.