Xylazine

Xylazine –

Often referred to as “tranq” on the streets, is a veterinary sedative, primarily used to tranquilize large animals such as horses and cattle. It is not approved for human use, but it has emerged as substance of abuse, often in combination with opioids like heroin or fentanyl. Its increasing presence in the illicit drug market has raised significant public health concerns.

Abuse of Xylazine

Xylazine is typically abused as an additive to street drugs, where it is used to enhance or prolong the effects of opioids. It can also be abused on its own for its sedative and muscle-relaxing effects. Methods of administration include injection, snorting, or smoking. People who misuse xylazine often seek its intense sedative properties, which produce a sense of deep relaxation or detachment.

The abuse of xylazine carries severe risks. Physically, it can cause extreme drowsiness, slowed breathing, reduced heart rate, and dangerously low blood pressure. Chronic use has been associated with severe skin ulcers, abscesses, and necrosis, sometimes requiring amputation. These wounds, often called “tranq sores,” can develop even in areas away from the injection site.

When combined with opioids, xylazine increases the risk of overdose. Unlike opioids, xylazine is not responsive to naloxone (Narcan), the medication used to reverse opioid overdoses. This complicates emergency responses and makes overdoses involving xylazine particularly dangerous.

The psychological effects of xylazine abuse include confusion, memory impairment, and a deepened state of sedation. Its misuse can lead to dependency, and withdrawal symptoms may include anxiety, agitation, and physical discomfort, making it difficult for users to quit without support.

Efforts to combat xylazine abuse focus on raising awareness among healthcare providers and the public, increasing testing for xylazine in overdose cases, and expanding access to harm reduction services. Treatment often involves managing withdrawal symptoms, addressing physical health complications, and providing counseling or therapy to support recovery.

As xylazine continues to infiltrate the illicit drug supply, understanding its risks and developing targeted interventions are critical steps in reducing its harm and preventing its misuse.

Cross Reactivity:

• When testing for the presence of Xylazine, watch out for contributing substances that may result in a false positive reading.
• Always be sure to investigate what other substances your test subject may be taking PRIOR to administering your test.

Call us at 888-822-7120 with any questions on cross-reactive substances interfering with Xylazine testing