Health and Me

Ishita Roy

What Is Medetomidine? The Animal Sedative Now Turning Up In US Street Drugs

What Is Medetomidine? The Animal Sedative Now Turning Up in US Street Drugs

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) released three reports on Thursday that highlighted the clusters of medetomidine-related cases in Chicago, Philadelphia, and Pittsburgh. These reports have raised alarm about the growing presence of this drug in street opioids and the potential complications it brings to treatment and recovery. 

<h4><span rel="noindex">What Is Medetomidine</span>?</h4>

As per the American College of Medical Toxicology (ACMT), it is an alpha-2 agonist, similar to clonidine and xylazine, that is used clinically as a sedative and analgesic. It is categorized as an NPS due to its novelty in use. The CDC in its Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report notes that it is a canine veterinary agent used for its anesthetic and analgesic properties. 

However, the National Library of Medicine's study titled Classics in Chemical Neuroscience: Medetomidine has noted that this drug "has recently been detected in the illicit drug supply alongside fentanyl, xylazine, cocaine, and heroin, producing pronounced sedative effective that are not reversed by naloxone."

As per the latest CDC report released on May 1, twelve confirmed and 26 probable cases of medetomidine-involved overdose occurred in Chicago. Fentanyl was present in all blood specimens and drug samples that tested positive for medetomidine.

It was first identified in North America’s illicit opioid market in 2022, medetomidine is now showing up more frequently in mixtures with synthetic opioids—particularly fentanyl, the drug driving most overdose deaths in the U.S.

In May 2023, Chicago officials noticed a spike in overdose cases where naloxone—the standard overdose-reversal medication—did not work as expected. After investigation, the city's health department confirmed 12 cases involving medetomidine, with over 160 more suspected or probable cases, including one potential death. This marks the largest known medetomidine cluster to date.

The two other CDC reports focused on medetomidine withdrawal. In Philadelphia, testing revealed medetomidine in 72% of illegal opioid samples collected in late 2023, overtaking xylazine in frequency. Patients exposed to medetomidine experienced a distinctive type of drug withdrawal that didn’t respond to usual medications for fentanyl or xylazine. However, a related medication called dexmedetomidine showed some success in managing symptoms.

Pittsburgh reported 10 similar cases around the same time, suggesting the issue is not isolated to one area but may be spreading through regional drug supplies.

The presence of sedatives like medetomidine in illicit opioids creates several public health challenges:

Reduced effectiveness of naloxone: Standard treatment protocols for overdoses may not work when sedatives are involved, increasing the risk of death.

<strong>Complicated withdrawals: </strong>The addition of new, unregulated substances alters the withdrawal process, often making it harder to treat.

Lack of awareness and testing: Many emergency responders and clinics do not routinely test for medetomidine, which could delay proper care.

This development adds a new layer to the already complex U.S. opioid crisis. As drug suppliers continue to mix opioids with a variety of sedatives and adulterants, health officials face an evolving battle. Experts stress the importance of broader toxicology screening, continued research, and expanding the availability of alternative treatments like dexmedetomidine.

While medetomidine isn’t yet as widespread as fentanyl or xylazine, its growing presence in cities like Chicago, Philadelphia, and Pittsburgh points to a potentially dangerous trend—one that will require urgent attention from both medical professionals and policymakers.

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The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) released three reports on Thursday that highlighted the clusters of medetomidine-related cases in Chicago, Philadelphia, and Pittsburgh. These reports have raised alarm about the growing presence of this drug in street opioids and the potential complications it brings to treatment and recovery. What Is Medetomidine?As per the American College of Medical Toxicology (ACMT), it is an alpha-2 agonist, similar to clonidine and xylazine, that is used clinically as a sedative and analgesic. It is categorized as an NPS due to its novelty in use. The CDC in its Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report notes that it is a canine veterinary agent used for its anesthetic and analgesic properties. However, the National Library of Medicine's study titled Classics in Chemical Neuroscience: Medetomidine has noted that this drug "has recently been detected in the illicit drug supply alongside fentanyl, xylazine, cocaine, and heroin, producing pronounced sedative effective that are not reversed by naloxone."As per the latest CDC report released on May 1, twelve confirmed and 26 probable cases of medetomidine-involved overdose occurred in Chicago. Fentanyl was present in all blood specimens and drug samples that tested positive for medetomidine.It was first identified in North America’s illicit opioid market in 2022, medetomidine is now showing up more frequently in mixtures with synthetic opioids—particularly fentanyl, the drug driving most overdose deaths in the U.S.Why Is This Worrisome?In May 2023, Chicago officials noticed a spike in overdose cases where naloxone—the standard overdose-reversal medication—did not work as expected. After investigation, the city's health department confirmed 12 cases involving medetomidine, with over 160 more suspected or probable cases, including one potential death. This marks the largest known medetomidine cluster to date.The two other CDC reports focused on medetomidine withdrawal. In Philadelphia, testing revealed medetomidine in 72% of illegal opioid samples collected in late 2023, overtaking xylazine in frequency. Patients exposed to medetomidine experienced a distinctive type of drug withdrawal that didn’t respond to usual medications for fentanyl or xylazine. However, a related medication called dexmedetomidine showed some success in managing symptoms.Pittsburgh reported 10 similar cases around the same time, suggesting the issue is not isolated to one area but may be spreading through regional drug supplies.Why Does It Matter?The presence of sedatives like medetomidine in illicit opioids creates several public health challenges:Reduced effectiveness of naloxone: Standard treatment protocols for overdoses may not work when sedatives are involved, increasing the risk of death.Complicated withdrawals: The addition of new, unregulated substances alters the withdrawal process, often making it harder to treat.Lack of awareness and testing: Many emergency responders and clinics do not routinely test for medetomidine, which could delay proper care.This development adds a new layer to the already complex U.S. opioid crisis. As drug suppliers continue to mix opioids with a variety of sedatives and adulterants, health officials face an evolving battle. Experts stress the importance of broader toxicology screening, continued research, and expanding the availability of alternative treatments like dexmedetomidine.While medetomidine isn’t yet as widespread as fentanyl or xylazine, its growing presence in cities like Chicago, Philadelphia, and Pittsburgh points to a potentially dangerous trend—one that will require urgent attention from both medical professionals and policymakers.

what is medetomidine? the animal sedative now turning up in us street drugs

Aarushi Bhadury

The Tell-Tale Early Sign Of Dementia That You Spot On Paper

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<span>Dementia</span> is a general term that is used to define a multitude of cognitive degenerative illnesses like Lewy body dementia, Alzheimer's disease, etc. Alzheimer’s diseases is the most common form of dementia and while researchers have been looking for ways to treat it, there still is no way to cure it completely, the only way to treat dementia is by managing its symptoms. 

<h2>Lesser-known Symptom of Dementia </h2>

Doctors often talk about common signs of dementia, like memory loss. But an expert says a lesser-known symptom could appear in something as simple as a birthday card, potentially being one of the first signs of Alzheimer's disease. 

If someone starts having trouble reading and writing, especially if they never did before, it could be an early sign of a certain condition. This idea is backed up by a 2020 study published in the Intelligent Data Analysis, which explains that some conditions affect how your brain and muscles work, leading to memory issues and confusion. Since writing involves both your brain and muscle control, it's often one of the first things to change, becoming shaky and harder to read over time. 

<h2>Other Subtle Signs to Watch For </h2>

Besides changes in handwriting also highlight some other less obvious, but important, signs of dementia that you should keep an eye out for. These can include a loved one no longer enjoying foods they used to like or starting to shuffle their feet when they walk. You might also notice them using the wrong words when they speak, frequently being late for things, forgetting names and faces of people they know well, or even getting lost in places that are familiar to them. 

<h2>What to Do If You Notice Changes </h2>

If you start to see any of these signs in someone you care about, Michael suggests it's important to talk to them openly about what you've noticed. Gently bring up your concerns and suggest that they make an appointment with their doctor to discuss these symptoms. This conversation with a medical professional will help guide both you and your loved one on the best way to move forward and get the right support. 

The Degenerative Neurological and Neuromuscular Disease journal explains that currently, there aren't any treatments that can fix the brain changes caused by Alzheimer's. But, we might be able to stop or slow down dementia in some individuals by helping them avoid common risk factors like unhealthy habits. Even without a cure, finding out early is super helpful. It gives the person and their family enough time to plan for the future and make important choices, and it also lets them get treatments that can help manage symptoms. 

<h2>Role of Healthcare and Prevention </h2>

Your regular doctor or other primary healthcare professionals play a huge part! They can help figure out who might be at risk for Alzheimer's. They can also suggest lifestyle changes when people are in their middle-age years, which can stop or slow down the disease. Plus, they are crucial for making a timely diagnosis when symptoms first appear. The best strategy is to step in early, because it helps people keep their ability to function and live independently for a longer time. 

dementia

Tell Tale Early Sign Of Dementia

Sign Of Dementia

Early Sign Of Dementia

Lesser known Symptom of Dementia

Early Diagnosis for dementia

Dementia is a general term that is used to define a multitude of cognitive degenerative illnesses like Lewy body dementia, Alzheimer's disease, etc. Alzheimer’s diseases is the most common form of dementia and while researchers have been looking for ways to treat it, there still is no way to cure it completely, the only way to treat dementia is by managing its symptoms. Lesser-known Symptom of Dementia Doctors often talk about common signs of dementia, like memory loss. But an expert says a lesser-known symptom could appear in something as simple as a birthday card, potentially being one of the first signs of Alzheimer's disease. If someone starts having trouble reading and writing, especially if they never did before, it could be an early sign of a certain condition. This idea is backed up by a 2020 study published in the Intelligent Data Analysis, which explains that some conditions affect how your brain and muscles work, leading to memory issues and confusion. Since writing involves both your brain and muscle control, it's often one of the first things to change, becoming shaky and harder to read over time. Other Subtle Signs to Watch For Besides changes in handwriting also highlight some other less obvious, but important, signs of dementia that you should keep an eye out for. These can include a loved one no longer enjoying foods they used to like or starting to shuffle their feet when they walk. You might also notice them using the wrong words when they speak, frequently being late for things, forgetting names and faces of people they know well, or even getting lost in places that are familiar to them. What to Do If You Notice Changes If you start to see any of these signs in someone you care about, Michael suggests it's important to talk to them openly about what you've noticed. Gently bring up your concerns and suggest that they make an appointment with their doctor to discuss these symptoms. This conversation with a medical professional will help guide both you and your loved one on the best way to move forward and get the right support. Why Early Diagnosis Matters The Degenerative Neurological and Neuromuscular Disease journal explains that currently, there aren't any treatments that can fix the brain changes caused by Alzheimer's. But, we might be able to stop or slow down dementia in some individuals by helping them avoid common risk factors like unhealthy habits. Even without a cure, finding out early is super helpful. It gives the person and their family enough time to plan for the future and make important choices, and it also lets them get treatments that can help manage symptoms. Role of Healthcare and Prevention Your regular doctor or other primary healthcare professionals play a huge part! They can help figure out who might be at risk for Alzheimer's. They can also suggest lifestyle changes when people are in their middle-age years, which can stop or slow down the disease. Plus, they are crucial for making a timely diagnosis when symptoms first appear. The best strategy is to step in early, because it helps people keep their ability to function and live independently for a longer time.  

the tell-tale early sign of dementia that you spot on paper

Outbreak Warning: New Viruses Found In Bats Living Near People In China

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In another news, scientists have discovered 20 new viruses from bats residing near people in China. This has been discovered in Yuan province, which has a population of around 4.2 million. The species are closely related to deadly Nipah and Hendra virus. 

<h4><span rel="noindex">Nipah Virus</span></h4>

As per the World Health Organization (WHO), the Nipah virus is a zoonotic virus, which means that it is transmitted from animals to humans, and can also be transmitted through contaminated food or directly between people. In infected people, it causes a range of illnesses from asymptomatic infection to acute respiratory illness and fatal encephalitis. The virus can also cause severe disease in animals such as pigs, resulting in significant economic losses for farmers. 

Although Nipah virus has caused only a few known outbreaks in Asia, it infects a wide range of animals and causes severe disease and death in people, making it a public health concern.

<h4><span rel="noindex">Hendre Virus</span></h4>

The WHO notes that Hendra virus (HeV) infection is a rare emerging zoonosis (disease that can be transmitted to humans from animals) that causes severe and often fatal disease in both infected horses and humans. The natural host of the virus has been identified as being fruit bats of the Pteropodidae Family, Pteropus genus.

HeV was identified during the first recorded outbreak of the disease in the Brisbane suburb of Hendra, Australia, in 1994, which is where it gets its name. 

The findings were published in the journal PLOS Pathogens. Experts say that the discovery has highlighted the growing risks of new viruses which could be easily transmitted from animals to humans, especially in areas where farming, deforestation, or urbanization are happening, that is bringing people closer to the wildlife.

The study was conducted by researchers from China and the University of Sydney has uncovered a surprising number of unknown viruses in bats. Unlike most previous research, which focused on bat droppings, this study examined kidney tissues—key organs involved in virus shedding through urine, another potential transmission route.

<h4>22 Viruses Found, 20 of Them Previously Unknown</h4>

The team studied the kidneys of 142 bats over four years in China’s Yunnan province. In total, they discovered 22 viruses, including 20 previously unknown ones. The study also revealed two new types of bacteria and one unidentified parasite.

Among the viruses identified were two new henipaviruses—a group that includes deadly pathogens like Nipah and Hendra. These viruses are known to cause severe brain and respiratory infections in humans and animals, with some outbreaks having mortality rates as high as 75 percent.

<h4>A Hidden Danger in Everyday Spaces</h4>

What makes the discovery even more concerning is that the bats studied were living close to agricultural areas. Researchers caution that bat urine could contaminate fruit or surfaces that both people and livestock might come into contact with, creating potential pathways for viral transmission. The study authors emphasized the urgent need to assess these newly found viruses for their potential to cause future outbreaks.

<h4>Expert Reactions: Important But No Cause for Panic</h4>

Tim Mahony, director at the Centre for Animal Science at the University of Queensland (not part of the study), said the findings highlight how much is still unknown about the viruses in bats and the wider environment.

Linfa Wang, professor at Duke-NUS Medical School in Singapore, added: “This shows just how many different viruses exist in bats, especially henipaviruses. We need to monitor the situation closely, but there’s no need for panic right now.”

Experts broadly agree that ongoing human disruption of wildlife habitats is a major driver of spillover events. As animals are pushed out of their natural environments, the likelihood of cross-species transmission rises. This latest study acts as a reminder of the hidden viral risks in nature—and the pressing need for global vigilance, monitoring, and preparedness.

study finds bat virus in china

nipah virus

hendre virus

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china virus

bat virus china

In another news, scientists have discovered 20 new viruses from bats residing near people in China. This has been discovered in Yuan province, which has a population of around 4.2 million. The species are closely related to deadly Nipah and Hendra virus. Nipah VirusAs per the World Health Organization (WHO), the Nipah virus is a zoonotic virus, which means that it is transmitted from animals to humans, and can also be transmitted through contaminated food or directly between people. In infected people, it causes a range of illnesses from asymptomatic infection to acute respiratory illness and fatal encephalitis. The virus can also cause severe disease in animals such as pigs, resulting in significant economic losses for farmers. Although Nipah virus has caused only a few known outbreaks in Asia, it infects a wide range of animals and causes severe disease and death in people, making it a public health concern.Hendre VirusThe WHO notes that Hendra virus (HeV) infection is a rare emerging zoonosis (disease that can be transmitted to humans from animals) that causes severe and often fatal disease in both infected horses and humans. The natural host of the virus has been identified as being fruit bats of the Pteropodidae Family, Pteropus genus.HeV was identified during the first recorded outbreak of the disease in the Brisbane suburb of Hendra, Australia, in 1994, which is where it gets its name. What Did The Scientists Find?The findings were published in the journal PLOS Pathogens. Experts say that the discovery has highlighted the growing risks of new viruses which could be easily transmitted from animals to humans, especially in areas where farming, deforestation, or urbanization are happening, that is bringing people closer to the wildlife.The study was conducted by researchers from China and the University of Sydney has uncovered a surprising number of unknown viruses in bats. Unlike most previous research, which focused on bat droppings, this study examined kidney tissues—key organs involved in virus shedding through urine, another potential transmission route.22 Viruses Found, 20 of Them Previously UnknownThe team studied the kidneys of 142 bats over four years in China’s Yunnan province. In total, they discovered 22 viruses, including 20 previously unknown ones. The study also revealed two new types of bacteria and one unidentified parasite.Among the viruses identified were two new henipaviruses—a group that includes deadly pathogens like Nipah and Hendra. These viruses are known to cause severe brain and respiratory infections in humans and animals, with some outbreaks having mortality rates as high as 75 percent.A Hidden Danger in Everyday SpacesWhat makes the discovery even more concerning is that the bats studied were living close to agricultural areas. Researchers caution that bat urine could contaminate fruit or surfaces that both people and livestock might come into contact with, creating potential pathways for viral transmission. The study authors emphasized the urgent need to assess these newly found viruses for their potential to cause future outbreaks.Expert Reactions: Important But No Cause for PanicTim Mahony, director at the Centre for Animal Science at the University of Queensland (not part of the study), said the findings highlight how much is still unknown about the viruses in bats and the wider environment.Linfa Wang, professor at Duke-NUS Medical School in Singapore, added: “This shows just how many different viruses exist in bats, especially henipaviruses. We need to monitor the situation closely, but there’s no need for panic right now.”Human Activity Driving the RiskExperts broadly agree that ongoing human disruption of wildlife habitats is a major driver of spillover events. As animals are pushed out of their natural environments, the likelihood of cross-species transmission rises. This latest study acts as a reminder of the hidden viral risks in nature—and the pressing need for global vigilance, monitoring, and preparedness.

outbreak warning: new viruses found in bats living near people in china

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Many people have become aware of medicines and what are certain medications used for, however this has led to some patients asking for specific medications from their doctors. They believe they understand better and often push doctors to give them what they think is right. Speaking about her experience with similar patients, Dr Mukherjee posted a video on Instagram calling out ‘pushy patients’ 

Dr. Bhasha Mukherjee, an NHS doctor, is strongly advising patients to listen to their doctors and rely on science when it comes to getting antibiotics. She wants everyone to understand that her main job is to make people better, not just to give them what they ask for, especially if it's not the right medical treatment. 

<h2>"Pushy Patients" and <span rel="noindex">Viral Infections</span> </h2>

Dr. Mukherjee has been quite vocal about patients who insist on getting antibiotics for viral infections, like the common cold or the flu. She even shared her reasons in an Instagram post called "A pushy patient asks for antibiotics for a viral infection." In it, she clearly explained why she says no to these requests. The main reason is simple: antibiotics don't work against viruses. Using them too much can actually cause serious problems, including: 

<strong><span rel="noindex">Antibiotic resistance</span>: </strong>This makes future <span>bacterial infections</span> harder to treat.

<strong>Gut issues:</strong> Antibiotics can disrupt the natural balance of gut bacteria. 

More harm than good: Unnecessary antibiotic use can lead to side effects without providing any benefit.

Dr. Mukherjee's message is clear, "I'm here to heal, not to please – and that means giving you the right treatment, not the requested one. Trust science. Trust your doctor." 

<h2>When Are Antibiotics Appropriate? </h2>

The NHS confirms that antibiotics are specifically for bacterial infections. They are not effective against viruses. However, there are specific scenarios where antibiotics are necessary and beneficial 

<h4>Non-serious but persistent bacterial infections </h4>

For ongoing issues such as severe acne, where the bacterial cause won't resolve naturally, antibiotics become necessary. They effectively target and eliminate the stubborn bacteria, leading to clearer skin and preventing long-term discomfort. 

<h4>Contagious bacterial infections </h4>

Conditions like impetigo or chlamydia, which are easily transmissible to others, require antibiotics. This treatment not only heals the infected individual but also prevents the spread of the bacterial infection within the community, protecting public health. 

In specific instances, such as a kidney infection, antibiotics play a crucial role. They quickly combat the bacterial invaders, significantly reducing symptoms and accelerating the patient's recovery, often preventing more severe illness.

Anti biotics are very important for serious bacterial infections like pneumonia. These diseases can be life-threatening and using antibiotics weakens these bacteria, helping you reduce the risk of the disease escalating. 

In certain situations, antibiotics are administered as a proactive measure. This preventative approach helps to ward off potential infections before they even start, especially in vulnerable patients undergoing specific medical procedures or with weakened immune systems. 

<h4>Exceptions for Vulnerable Patients </h4>

Even though antibiotics usually aren't prescribed for viral infections, doctors might consider them for people who are more likely to get very sick from such infections. This includes people over 75, newborn babies (under 72 hours old), individuals with heart failure, those who need insulin for diabetes, and anyone with a weakened immune system. 

<h2>Why Avoid Unnecessary Antibiotic Use? </h2>

Besides not working on viruses, the NHS points out more reasons why doctors usually don't give antibiotics for viral infections. For one, they won't help you get better any more quickly. Also, taking antibiotics for small problems can make them stop working for more serious illnesses later which means the effectiveness of the medicine goes down. This is a big part of a worldwide issue called antibiotic resistance. 

viral infections

Antibiotics and Viral infections

Do Viral Infections need antibiotics

Antibiotic resistance

When do you need antibiotics

Bacterial infections

Many people have become aware of medicines and what are certain medications used for, however this has led to some patients asking for specific medications from their doctors. They believe they understand better and often push doctors to give them what they think is right. Speaking about her experience with similar patients, Dr Mukherjee posted a video on Instagram calling out ‘pushy patients’ Dr. Bhasha Mukherjee, an NHS doctor, is strongly advising patients to listen to their doctors and rely on science when it comes to getting antibiotics. She wants everyone to understand that her main job is to make people better, not just to give them what they ask for, especially if it's not the right medical treatment. "Pushy Patients" and Viral Infections Dr. Mukherjee has been quite vocal about patients who insist on getting antibiotics for viral infections, like the common cold or the flu. She even shared her reasons in an Instagram post called "A pushy patient asks for antibiotics for a viral infection." In it, she clearly explained why she says no to these requests. The main reason is simple: antibiotics don't work against viruses. Using them too much can actually cause serious problems, including: Antibiotic resistance: This makes future bacterial infections harder to treat.Gut issues: Antibiotics can disrupt the natural balance of gut bacteria. More harm than good: Unnecessary antibiotic use can lead to side effects without providing any benefit.Dr. Mukherjee's message is clear, "I'm here to heal, not to please – and that means giving you the right treatment, not the requested one. Trust science. Trust your doctor." When Are Antibiotics Appropriate? The NHS confirms that antibiotics are specifically for bacterial infections. They are not effective against viruses. However, there are specific scenarios where antibiotics are necessary and beneficial Non-serious but persistent bacterial infections For ongoing issues such as severe acne, where the bacterial cause won't resolve naturally, antibiotics become necessary. They effectively target and eliminate the stubborn bacteria, leading to clearer skin and preventing long-term discomfort. Contagious bacterial infections Conditions like impetigo or chlamydia, which are easily transmissible to others, require antibiotics. This treatment not only heals the infected individual but also prevents the spread of the bacterial infection within the community, protecting public health. To speed up recovery In specific instances, such as a kidney infection, antibiotics play a crucial role. They quickly combat the bacterial invaders, significantly reducing symptoms and accelerating the patient's recovery, often preventing more severe illness. Risk of serious complications Anti biotics are very important for serious bacterial infections like pneumonia. These diseases can be life-threatening and using antibiotics weakens these bacteria, helping you reduce the risk of the disease escalating. Antibiotic prophylaxis In certain situations, antibiotics are administered as a proactive measure. This preventative approach helps to ward off potential infections before they even start, especially in vulnerable patients undergoing specific medical procedures or with weakened immune systems. Exceptions for Vulnerable Patients Even though antibiotics usually aren't prescribed for viral infections, doctors might consider them for people who are more likely to get very sick from such infections. This includes people over 75, newborn babies (under 72 hours old), individuals with heart failure, those who need insulin for diabetes, and anyone with a weakened immune system. Why Avoid Unnecessary Antibiotic Use? Besides not working on viruses, the NHS points out more reasons why doctors usually don't give antibiotics for viral infections. For one, they won't help you get better any more quickly. Also, taking antibiotics for small problems can make them stop working for more serious illnesses later which means the effectiveness of the medicine goes down. This is a big part of a worldwide issue called antibiotic resistance.  

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