The Pennsylvania Department of Health (PADOH) released a health advisory on Thursday, June 15, 2023. Below is a summary.
• As of May 2023, xylazine contributed to 644 deaths in 38 Pennsylvania counties in 2022, which is an increase of more than 1,000% since 2018.
• Healthcare providers should be aware of the increased prevalence of xylazine in the non-prescription drug supply and be prepared to deploy harm reduction practices such as overdose response and xylazine wound care.
• Use naloxone to reverse any suspected overdose. Rescue breathing and/or oxygen administration may also be needed to reverse an overdose involving xylazine.
• If you have any questions, please call DOH at 1-877-PA-HEALTH (1-877-724-3258) or your local health department.
Click here to view the entire health advisory on the PADOH website. (PDF)
