COLUMBUS, Ohio (WTVN)--The Franklin County Coroner is warning of a spike in overdoses involving a drug that's normally used as a muscle relaxer for large animals.
Dr. Anahi Ortiz says three overdose fatalities so far this year have involved xylazine, which is generally used by veterinarians on cattle or horses.
Dr. Ortiz notes that since xylazine is not an opioid, narcan will not work on counteracting an overdose. Xylazine is also not controlled.
She adds people should still try and use narcan, since xylazine is being used with opiates.
Officials still urge anyone who spots an overdose to call 911