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Congratulations to the “Avengers” Research Team, led by Dr. Zoe McElligott, for their important discovery of the effects of xylazine on opioid use disorder!

Zoe McElligott, PhD
Zoe McElligott, PhD

As part of the Triangle Center of Excellence in Regulatory Science and Innovation (Triangle CERSI), this team, researchers at Triangle CERSI, discover effects of xylazine on opioid use disorder. has made significant progress in addressing a pressing public health issue. Awarded an FDA grant, the team is studying the effects of xylazine, a veterinary tranquilizer, when combined with opioids like fentanyl—a combination that has contributed to a sharp rise in overdose deaths.

Early findings from the research reveal the severe physiological impact of this mixture, providing crucial insights that could lead to improved treatments for overdoses. This project is part of a broader effort by Triangle CERSI to combat the opioid crisis and highlights the importance of innovative research in tackling such challenges.

Read more in the full article published in UNC Health and Medicine by Eshelman Innovation, UNC Eshelman School of Pharmacy, Thursday, January 16th, 2025 for more about Dr. Zoe McElligott & Avengers team discovery!