The Massachusetts Center of Excellence for Specialty Courts, an initiative of the Executive Office of the Massachusetts Trial Court, aims to bring innovative, evidence-based, and equitable interventions to Specialty Courts and related settings.
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In the Spotlight
What You Need to Know About Xylazine
Joseph Sawicki, RPh, PharmD
This one-page brief is intended to provide information about Xylazine. Xylazine is a non-opioid sedative that acts as a muscle relaxant and analgesic agent used in veterinary medicine. It is added to street opioids to enhance and prolong their euphoric effects. Long-term effects include severe skin wounds that appear over the body (not just at injection sites) and worsen very quickly.
Register for our Practitioner Portal to access a range of trainings, tools, resources, and technical assistance. Once registered, explore our comprehensive one-page brief and handout on Xylazine effects and management, along with many other essential topic areas related to Specialty Courts.

Helen Harberts, MA, JD
Faculty, National Drug Court Institute, National Center for DWI Courts,
Description:
This online course will focus on working with justice involved people who use methamphetamine. Working with this population can be confusing for professionals, as methamphetamine use can present some unique issues and challenges. People who use methamphetamine may display behaviors that are easily misinterpreted as resistance or defiance. Court, treatment, and case outcomes improve when supervision, treatment, counsel, social services, health staff, and Court personnel know what to look for, what to expect, and how to address challenges. This training is hosted by Massachusetts Center of Excellence for Specialty Courts, and funded by the Executive Office of The Massachusetts Trial Court.
Access the Training:
Per the trainer’s request, access this training and supporting materials by registering for the Practitioner Portal.
Register – Practitioner Portal
