Reported xylazine exposure highly associated with overdose outcomes in a rapid community assessment among people who inject drugs in Baltimore

Author:

German Danielle,Genberg Becky,Sugarman Olivia,Saloner Brendon,Sawyer Anne,Glick Jennifer L.,Gribbin Molly,Flynn Colin

Abstract

Abstract Background Addressing xylazine harms are now a critical harm reduction priority, but relatively little epidemiological information exists to determine prevalence, magnitude, and correlates of xylazine use or related outcomes. Methods We conducted a rapid behavioral survey among people who inject drugs (n = 96) in Baltimore November–December 2022. Using a novel indicator of self-reported presumed xylazine effects, we examined prevalence and sociodemographic correlates of past year presumed xylazine effects and association with overdose and wound-related outcomes. Chi-square and descriptive statistics were used to examine bivariate associations overall and separately for those who reported xylazine by name and by reported fentanyl use frequency. Results Almost two-thirds (61.5%) reported experiencing xylazine effects. There were no differences by socio-demographics, but xylazine effects were more commonly reported among those who reported injecting alone (66% vs 38%%, p < 0.007) and daily fentanyl use (47% vs 24% p < 0.003). Those reporting xylazine exposure was three times as likely to report overdose (32% vs 11%, p < 0.03) and twice as likely to have used naloxone (78% vs 46%, p < 0.003). They also more commonly reported knowing someone who died of an overdose (92% vs 76%, p < 0.09) and to report an abscess requiring medical attention (36% vs 19%, p < 0.80). These associations were higher among respondents who specifically named xylazine and those who used fentanyl more frequently, but fentanyl frequency did not fully explain the heightened associations with xylazine effects. Conclusions This study provides insight into the scope of xylazine exposure and associated health concerns among community-based PWID and suggests measures that may be instrumental for urgently needed research.

Funder

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

Maryland Department of Health, United States

Publisher

Springer Science and Business Media LLC

Reference26 articles.

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