After an upsurge in Xylazine consumption, commonly known as ‘tranq,’ has swept the nation, a bipartisan group of Congressional lawmakers recently moved to further restrict the drug widely used as a sedative for animals.

Xylazine is a non-opioid veterinary sedative, analgesic, and muscle relaxant commonly used in the vaccine. The newly emergent drug sweeping the nation, known as ‘Tranq,’ combines this tranquilizer with fentanyl to lengthen the effects of the high and has recently been declared an emergency drug threat.

Last week, the DEA issued an alert saying it had seized xylazine and fentanyl mixtures in 48 out of 50 states. Heather Harlan, health educator, and Ryan Sheehan, Public Information Specialist, both for Columbia/Boone County Public Health and Human Services, said the source of Xylazine to the general public could be hard to pinpoint. The Missouri Veterinary Medical Board disclosed to KRCG that veterinarians must account for their products daily. Their organization suspects that the vast majority comes from sources outside the profession.

Harlan said at least one Xylazine-related death has occurred in Columbia/Boone County, and more have occurred in other parts of mid-Missouri. It is difficult to have a large amount of data, she says, because it does not unveil until a toxicology report is received. She added law enforcement is actively reporting information back to their organization.

Illicit drugs, Sheehan said, are typically provided at a rate that is deadly for the consumer. Even though it will not reverse the effects of Xylazine, he added that Narcan should be administered to reverse the affects of any potential opioid it is paired with.

When asked about the emergence of ‘Tranq’ compared to other drugs like “Flakka,’ Missouri State Highway Patrol Corporal Kyle Green says he is unsure if 'Tranq' will take the same path. ‘Flakka’ or ‘Zombie Drug’ emerged similarly in 2018 in Sullivan, Missouri, and caused cannibalism, flesh-eating bacteria, and hallucinations.

The Missouri Veterinary Medical Board adds that actions are currently being taken to monitor and prevent any diversion of Xylazine from the veterinary supply chain for illicit use and ensure veterinary access to this quote ‘critically important’ animal drug if the bill restricts that.

We will keep you updated as new developments arise.