The recent footage of a delivery man standing motionless in Sector 33B, Chandigarh, for over two hours has sparked intense speculation online. Observers described him as being in a “trance-like” state with a bidi in his mouth, completely unresponsive to the environment.
While medical evaluations are ongoing, the behavior has led to widespread concerns that the “zombie drug” (Xylazine)—which has devastated several U.S. cities—may have surfaced in India.
What is Xylazine?
Xylazine is a non-opioid sedative, analgesic, and muscle relaxant. Crucially, it is approved only for veterinary use (primarily for large animals like horses and cattle) and is strictly not for human consumption.
Why is it called the ‘Zombie Drug’?
-
The “Fold”: In humans, it causes extreme sedation and a “slumped” or “frozen” posture. Users can remain conscious but entirely immobile for hours, appearing like the “living dead.”
-
Tissue Necrosis: Repeated use is associated with severe skin ulcers and rotting abscesses that can lead to amputation, regardless of where the drug was injected.
The Deadly Combination: Xylazine + Fentanyl
In illicit markets, Xylazine is frequently mixed with Fentanyl (a potent synthetic opioid) to “stretch” the high. This combination is particularly lethal for two reasons:
-
Respiratory Depression: Both drugs slow down breathing and heart rates to dangerously low levels.
-
Naloxone Resistance: Because Xylazine is not an opioid, the standard overdose reversal treatment (Naloxone/Narcan) does not work on its sedative effects. While Naloxone should still be administered to reverse the Fentanyl component, the victim may remain unresponsive due to the Xylazine.
Key Symptoms and Effects
| Effect | Description |
| Heavy Sedation | Users appear “frozen” or “slumped” in public spaces for extended periods. |
| Physical Damage | Severe skin lesions, ulcers, and necrotic tissue (rotting flesh). |
| Vitals Drop | Significantly reduced blood pressure, heart rate, and body temperature. |
| Unresponsiveness | Disconnection from reality; inability to communicate or move. |
The Chandigarh Context
While social media users are drawing parallels to the “Fentanyl fold” seen in the U.S., local authorities have not yet confirmed the presence of Xylazine or Fentanyl in this specific case.
Important Note: Experts urge caution against self-diagnosis via viral clips, as the behavior could also stem from a severe medical emergency, such as a catatonic state, a complex partial seizure, or other neurological issues.
What’s Next?
The police have taken the individual for a medical evaluation and toxicology screening. If Xylazine is confirmed, it would mark a significant and worrying shift in the local illicit drug supply, requiring a complete overhaul of emergency response protocols which currently rely heavily on opioid-reversal agents.
