Season 13 • Episode 997

997 - The New Drug Igniting a Withdrawal Crisis

Jan 15, 2026

14:24

Episode Description

About this episode:

Medetomidine, a veterinary sedative similar to xylazine, is appearing more frequently in drug supplies in Maryland, Delaware, and Pennsylvania—and the withdrawal symptoms are debilitating. In this episode: Addiction medicine specialist Jordan Nahas-Vigon details the risks facing people who use drugs and why it's so difficult to quit.

Guests:

Dr. Jordan Nahas-Vigon is a primary care doctor with Johns Hopkins Medicine who specializes in addiction medicine.

Host:

Dr. Josh Sharfstein is distinguished professor of the practice in Health Policy and Management, a pediatrician, and former secretary of Maryland's Health Department.

Show links and related content:

A Powerful New Drug Is Creating a 'Withdrawal Crisis' in Philadelphia—New York Times
Why the animal sedative behind a Baltimore mass overdose is so hard to quit—The Baltimore Banner
Sedative 'dex' is replacing 'tranq' in illegal drug supply and causing excruciating withdrawal—STAT
The Xylazine Crisis—Public Health On Call (May 2023)

Transcript information:

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