Fact Sheet Xylazine Basics: Overdose Prevention and Wound Care
Published: October 7, 2025
This document provides information on xylazine, a non-opioid veterinary tranquilizer used as an additive in illicit drug supplies, notably in combination with heroin and fentanyl. It discusses the effects of xylazine use, including sedation and potential risks such as hypotension and bradycardia. The document also emphasizes interventions for individuals who may encounter xylazine in the drug supply, including the use of naloxone for responding to overdoses and the importance of wound identification and treatment.
Sections include:
- What is Xylazine?
- Where has Xylazine been found in the drug supply?
- What are the major effects of Xylazine use?
- Responding to Overdose in Communities Where Xylazine is Present
- Xylazine Withdrawal
- Xylazine-Related Wounds
- Interventions for Xylazine
*This resource was updated in September 2025 to reflect current policy.