Xylazine, heroin and drug markets with Caroline Copeland

Xylazine, heroin and drug markets with Caroline Copeland

Ever wondered what new threats are lurking in the illicit drug market? In this episode of Addiction Audio, Dr. Caroline Copeland joins Ben Scher to unpack her groundbreaking research on xylazine, a substance making alarming inroads into the UK drug scene. Dr.

Copeland, a senior lecturer at King’s College London and director of the National Programme on Substance Use Mortality, paints a stark picture of xylazine's dangers, from its entry into the US market to its unexpected presence in UK vapes and heroin supplies. She doesn't hold back on the grim details: xylazine can cause blood vessels to contract, leading to tissue death, severe sores, and even amputations if infections set in.

This episode isn't just a cautionary tale; it's a call to action for public health practitioners and policymakers. Dr. Copeland emphasizes the urgent need for informed decisions and harm reduction strategies to combat this evolving threat. If you're curious about the complexities of drug trends and the critical role of research in shaping effective policies, this conversation is a must-listen.