‘Zombie Drug’ viral video fake, no such substance in India: Udupi psychiatrist

‘Zombie Drug’ viral video fake, no such substance in India: Udupi psychiatrist

Mangalore Today News Network

Udupi, Apr 14, 2026: A viral video on social media claiming the use of “zombie drugs” is false, and no such substance is in use in India, said senior psychiatrist Dr. P. V. Bhandari.

A recent clip showing a youth standing motionless like a statue, allegedly after consuming the drug, had triggered concern online. Authorities, including the Home Minister and police, have since issued clarifications and warned of action against those spreading rumours.

The video has been falsely linked to Bengaluru and Chandigarh, with claims that a youth supplied the drug. Dismissing these as baseless, Dr. Bhandari said such drugs are not available anywhere in India.

He noted that the substance in question was reported in the United States in 2016 and is a veterinary drug used to sedate animals. When used by humans, it may cause skin lesions and a statue-like immobile state. However, there is no evidence of its use in India so far.

Cautioning against drawing conclusions from the 30-second clip, he said the individual seen in the video could be affected by factors such as heat or hypoglycemia. He urged the public to assist people in distress instead of recording videos.

Dr. Bhandari also appealed to the public not to spread unnecessary fear about “zombie drugs” and to instead focus on tackling real issues such as the abuse of ganja, opium, sleeping pills, and MDMA, which continue to harm the youth.