The ‘Zombie’ Fear

Social media has pressed the ‘panic button’ with disturbing viral videos of individuals frozen mid-motion, bodies slumped, claiming it’s the “zombie drug” effect. However, the cops have debunked the “zombie drug” claims after investigating cases of a motionless man in Bengaluru, Maharashtra and youths in Bihar, Punjab. Reports of the Gujarat police’s State Monitoring Cell (SMC) recently seizing 20 “zombie” THC-infused e-cigarettes/vapes valued at Rs 1 lakh each in Navsari have added to the fear. Experts warn that “Globally, patterns of drug use tend to spread rapidly.” Early awareness is key to prevention. The Indian police and health experts have intensified surveillance.

Precaution Better Than Cure

With the growing popularity of vaping among youths, there are concerns that synthetic cocktails — sometimes containing unknown sedatives — can easily be infused into vape liquids, making consumption more discreet and accessible. At the centre of this concern is xylazine, a veterinary sedative now entering human drug supply chains. Although xylazine is not widely reported across India, experts warn that the risk is very real. “Substance use is rarely about curiosity alone — it is often a progression,” says Dr. Vivian Kapil, Consultant Psychiatrist at SRM Prime Hospital, Chennai.

Many users are already dependent on other substances when newer drugs enter the market. These are often cheaper and more accessible. Individuals may not even realise what they are consuming. “Many users may not even realise they are consuming xylazine, as it is frequently mixed with other drugs,” warns Dr. Santosh Chavan, Psychiatrist at Jupiter Hospital. He adds, “Substance use is rarely a rational choice — it is often driven by stress, trauma, or underlying mental health conditions.”

The Hidden Risk

Unlike traditional drug abuse, emerging patterns involve mixing substances in ways that are difficult to detect. Vape liquids, which are widely available and customisable, can potentially be altered to include synthetic additives. This creates a dangerous scenario. Xylazine itself does not produce a typical euphoric high. However, when combined with opioids like fentanyl, it can intensify sedation and prolong effects. This combination significantly increases the risk of respiratory depression and overdose. “Chronic use can lead to anxiety, depression, cognitive impairment, and social withdrawal, severely impacting quality of life,” says Dr. Chavan.

Inside The Emergency Room

When a patient arrives with a suspected overdose, doctors follow the ABC protocol — airway, breathing, and circulation. “Our primary focus in overdose cases remains airway, breathing, and circulation—but with newer drugs like this, uncertainty makes management more challenging,” says Dr. Ajay Christopher, In-charge of Emer-gency Medicine, Rela Hospital, Chennai.

The complexity arises because xylazine does not respond to standard opioid reversal treatments. While naloxone may counter opioids, the sedative effects of xylazine require supportive care, with no specific antidote available. Dr Chavan states that the sooner substance use is identified and addressed, the better the chances of recovery.

The Way Forward

Experts emphasise that awareness — not fear — is the most effective response. Understand-ing how substances are evolving, recognising early warning signs, and reducing stigma around seeking help can prevent escalation.

Cops rubbish 'zombie drug' claims

The Thane police issued a press release stating that the man was not under the influence of “zombie drug” but had taken an overdose of Pregabalin, a medicine used to treat nerve pain. Bengaluru Commissioner of Police Seemant Kumar Singh rubbished the viral ‘zombie drug’ video and expressed concern over the spread of misinformation.

Karnataka Home Minister G. Parameshwara too slammed social media buzz, stating that there is no such thing as “zombie drugs.” Parameshwara warned that “strict action” would be taken against those spreading false information.

Early Warning Signs

Experts stress that awareness should focus on recognising early behavioural and physical changes, including:

• Unusual drowsiness or sedation

• Slowed movement or speech

• Sudden withdrawal from social interactions

• Increased dependence on substances

What is Xylazine?

• Xylazine is not approved for human use. It is used in veterinary medicine to sedate animals, relieve pain, and induce muscle relaxation.

• In humans, it acts as a powerful central nervous system depressant.

• It slows brain activity, reduces heart rate, lowers blood pressure, and suppresses breathing.

The Living Dead

• Xylazine-linked fentanyl deaths increased from 2.9% (Jan 2019) to 10.9% (June 2022)

• Xylazine became one of the top four drugs involved in overdose deaths (2023)

Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

Helplines • National Mental Health Helpline (Kiran): 1800-599-0019 • AASRA (Suicide Prevention): 9820466726 • Nasha Mukt Bharat Helpline: 14446