Perceptions and Experiences of Xylazine, Disparities in Xylazine Awareness, and Correlates of Xylazine-Attributed Wounds Among People Who Use Opioids

Awareness of xylazine in the drug supply remains incomplete among PWUO, with differences by race, age, and gender. The finding of a strong association of xylazine-attributed wounds and injection drug use should be the focus of future research. These findings underscore the need for enhanced surveillance systems, peer education, and community-based harm reduction strategies. Real-time monitoring and rapid response strategies are essential to protect against health risks of toxic adulterants, such as xylazine, medetomidine, and BTMP, in the drug supply.