Exploring Xylazine and Fentanyl: New Insights in Addiction Medicine
Episode Overview
Study reveals xylazine's median terminal half-life in plasma is 12 hours. Emergency visits for hallucinogen use linked to higher schizophrenia risk. Alcohol-related death rates doubled from 1999 to 2020, especially among young adults. High opioid use associated with increased dementia risk in younger populations. Neuroimaging biomarkers could inform future addiction treatment interventions.
The median terminal half-life for xylazine in plasma was 12 hours.
Dive into this episode of 'This Week in Addiction Medicine' from ASAM, where host Zach Caruso breaks down a series of compelling studies that shed light on various aspects of addiction medicine. The episode kicks off with a deep dive into the pharmacokinetics of xylazine in patients who also tested positive for fentanyl. Using plasma samples from 28 patients, researchers found that the median terminal half-life for xylazine in plasma was 12 hours.
However, the study also highlights gaps in understanding the timing and route of xylazine ingestion, which could affect the accuracy of results. Next, an intriguing study from JAMA Psychiatry is discussed, focusing on the link between emergency department visits for hallucinogen use and the risk of developing schizophrenia spectrum disorders. The findings suggest that individuals requiring emergency care for hallucinogen use may have an increased risk of schizophrenia.
Caruso then explores rising alcohol-related mortality rates in the United States, as detailed in a study from the American Journal of Medicine. The data shows a doubling in alcohol-related deaths between 1999 and 2020, with a significant increase among young adults aged 25 to 34. Another noteworthy study from Denmark examines the relationship between opioid use and dementia, revealing that high opioid use is associated with an increased risk of dementia in younger populations.
The episode wraps up with insights into neuroimaging biomarkers in addiction medicine and a systematic review on glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists' potential to reduce alcohol consumption. Each segment provides valuable information for anyone interested in addiction medicine, making this episode a must-listen for healthcare professionals and those affected by addiction.