CDC Researchers Release Analysis of Illicit Substance Overdose Deaths Involving Fentanyl and Xylazine

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention researchers just released an analysis of illicitly manufactured fentanyl overdose deaths involving xylazine, found here.

From January 2109 to June 2022, they report a 276% increase in such deaths. While this number is sobering, the authors note that inconsistent testing practices likely means the number is actually much higher.

As part of their recommendations, they encourage more routine testing for xylazine to help inform harm reduction measures. The authors also recognized previous xylazine testing work, performed at Aegis, of routine outpatient testing samples in the study.

Since April 2021, we have afforded providers the opportunity to test for xylazine (and other leading novel psychoactive substances) to assist in their efforts of minimizing overdose risk.?Learn more about Aegis testing for xylazine and other novel psychoactive substances here.