Investigating the health effects of xylazine exposure in drug users in the southeastern US
Official title: Growing Xylazine Supply in NC: A Community-Based Investigation of Exposure and Health Consequences
Funded at Research Triangle Institute · NIH-10952956 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking into how xylazine, a substance found in some illegal drugs, is affecting people who use drugs in the southeastern U.S., and it aims to help those individuals by tracking how often xylazine shows up in the drug supply and what health issues it might cause over time.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Research Triangle Institute NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Research Triangle Park, United States) |
| Project start | July 15, 2024 |
| Project end | June 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $204,243 |
| NIH project number | 1R21DA061167-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10952956 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who use drugs and may be exposed to xylazine, particularly in the southeastern US.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not use drugs or are not at risk of xylazine exposure may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the rising issue of xylazine exposure among individuals who use drugs in the southeastern United States. It employs a community-based approach to collect data on the prevalence of xylazine in the illicit drug supply and its effects on health. By using drug checking methods, the study aims to gather information on how xylazine is being mixed with other substances and the resulting health consequences for users. Participants will be involved in a longitudinal study that tracks changes over time, providing valuable insights into drug use behaviors and risks associated with xylazine exposure.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved strategies for preventing overdose deaths and better health outcomes for individuals affected by xylazine exposure.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown success in community-based drug checking initiatives, indicating that this approach could yield valuable data on substance use trends and health impacts.
Where this research is happening
-
Research Triangle Institute
Research Triangle Park, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Zibbell, Jon Eric — Research Triangle Institute
- Study coordinator: Zibbell, Jon Eric
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.