"Deadly 'Zombie Drug' Laced with Animal Sedative Fuels US Overdose Crisis"

A new street drug called medetomidine, an animal tranquilizer 100 times stronger than xylazine, is causing overdose deaths in nine U.S. states. Often found mixed with fentanyl and heroin, medetomidine leads to severe sedation and slowed heart rate, and is not reversible with Narcan. The drug is exacerbating the drug crisis in cities like Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, and Chicago. Experts emphasize the importance of calling 911 and providing rescue breathing during overdoses, while urging against dehumanizing those affected.