Speakers

Biography

Matthew J Maguire III is a Healthcare industry leader. Working in multiple fronts of medicine, Matthew is currently the Director of Nursing for Preasum Healthcare and oversees a 200 bed substance abuse and mental health facility In the Heart of the Philidelphia. Prior to his roll in Nursing leadership. Matthew was a successful EMS Coordinator with 2 of the States' major hospital systems. As well as working 12 years as a Paramedic in one of the nation's busiest systems. Matthew is also a FEMA Medical Specialist with New Jersey Task Force One. As well as regular speaker at both state and national medical conventions. He is also very active in pediatric care, safe infant sleep, and SIDS education as well as homeless outreach and harm reduction. Matthews eclectic experiences in healthcare brings a unique perspective to the healthcare industry.  
 

Abstract

"It's not a matter of if fentanyl-laced Xylazine will make its way into my community, but when. For most, it's already here. Adulterated street drugs are not a new phenomenon. As long as there has been an illegal drug trade, people have been using various adulterants to enhance or alter the effects of drugs. However, with Xylazine, the unintended consequences of its use have left many of its users looking like literal zombies. In this presentation, we will explore the history of Xylazine, from its use in veterinary medicine to its first reported human use in the early 2000s in Puerto Rico. We will examine the synergistic effects Xylazine has with opioids and the economics behind how we arrived at this point with fentanyl-laced Xylazine. Additionally, we will discuss the signs and symptoms of Xylazine use and the differential diagnosis that can mask its use. Lastly, we will examine the systemic effects of Xylazine, notably the development of open sores on the body."