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Xylazine, also known as “tranq,” is a veterinary tranquilizer that has been found in some illicit drug supplies. People often use xylazine without knowing it when it is added to other drugs, most frequently fentanyl.
Xylazine can slow breathing, heart rate, and blood pressure to dangerously low levels. Overdose reversal medications do not reverse the effects of xylazine. Experts recommend that people give opioid overdose reversal medications to those experiencing symptoms of an overdose with suspected xylazine exposure, since opioids are often present with xylazine. In addition to risk for overdose, repeated xylazine use is associated with skin wounds, such as open sores (ulcers) and abscesses.
NIDA-supported research is underway to understand xylazine’s effects on the body, its impact on communities, and its role in the overdose crisis. NIDA also supports broader research into changes to the drug supply, and evolving patterns of drug use across the United States. This includes how and why people use drugs and are exposed to xylazine and synthetic opioids like fentanyl.
https://nida.nih.gov/research-topics/xylazine
