We're talking about Xylazine again. We haven't covered it on the podcast since 2022, and since it's becoming more common in the drug supply, it was time to discuss it again.

Unlock the secrets to understanding one of today's most alarming substances misused in addiction – Xylazine, infamously dubbed the "Zombie Drug." Join me, Dr. Casey Grover, as I dive into the world of Xylazine, a veterinary medication with unintended and dangerous consequences when misused by humans. Discover the pharmacological effects of this alpha-2 agonist, closely related to medications like clonidine, and learn how it disrupts normal physiological functions, leading to slowed heart rate, low blood pressure, and sedation.

In this episode, I unravel the complexities of Xylazine use, highlighting the dire risks of overdose and the challenges faced due to the absence of a human reversal agent. By sharing my 14 years of experience in the emergency department and my current role as a medical director in addiction treatment, I aim to provide crucial insights into how healthcare professionals can respond to Xylazine-related emergencies. This episode offers a comprehensive guide for anyone involved in the realm of addiction medicine, from healthcare providers to individuals battling addiction and their loved ones, emphasizing the importance of informed and compassionate care.

To contact Dr. Grover: ammadeeasy@fastmail.com

This episode explores the complexities surrounding kratom, featuring insights from Matthew Lowe of the Global Kratom Coalition (GKC). We discuss the dual nature of kratom, its benefits and risks, the importance of consumer education, and the ongoing push for industry regulation to protect users.

We discuss
• An overview of kratom's rising popularity and consumer demographics
• The role of word-of-mouth and the internet in kratom discovery
• Importance of accurate labeling and consumer education
• Differences between kratom leaf, extracts, and synthetic products
• Discussion on addiction potential and withdrawal symptoms
• The Kratom Consumer Protection Acts and their significance
• Ethical considerations within the kratom industry
• Call for enhanced regulation and responsible marketing practices

To contact Dr. Grover: ammadeeasy@fastmail.com

Evan Morgan, a dedicated fire captain from Central California, provides a raw and deeply personal account of his struggle with addiction, illustrating the harsh realities faced by healthcare professionals battling the stigma that comes with it. Once an ambitious student experimenting with drugs, Evan’s journey spiraled into dependency on prescription painkillers after a workplace injury. His candid narrative reveals the devastating effects of addiction on his professional life and personal relationships, offering listeners a rare glimpse into the internal conflicts of a first responder caught between duty and dependency.

Listeners will discover how Evan's life took a pivotal turn when an encounter with law enforcement acted as a much-needed wake-up call. The story unfolds to reveal the weight of maintaining a paramedic career while wrestling with a Dilaudid addiction and the unexpected relief that came with being honest about his struggles. With backing from his supportive fire department chiefs, Evan embarked on a rehabilitation journey at the International Association of Firefighters in Maryland, which ultimately led him to sobriety. Through his inspirational account, we explore the power of transparency and the surprising support system that can emerge when someone is brave enough to ask for help.

Our episode underscores the critical need to shift perceptions around addiction in professional settings, with a focus on reducing stigma through empathy and understanding. Evan's experience exemplifies how sharing personal stories can foster compassion and break down prejudices in healthcare environments. By shedding light on the prevalent issues of substance abuse and PTSD among first responders, we aim to promote a culture of support and awareness, encouraging others to view addiction through a more compassionate lens. Join us as we commit to creating resources and raising awareness for addiction treatment, inspired by the bravery and resilience of those like Evan.