• Xylazine, a non-opioid sedative approved by the FDA solely for animal use, is being increasingly mixed with substances like cocaine, heroin, or fentanyl to amplify their effects or boost their street worth. Its peril lies in its ability to dangerously suppress breathing, blood pressure, heart rate, and body temperature to critical points. When combined with fentanyl, it can complicate efforts to reverse overdoses.

  • Xylazine has been detected in the illegal drug supply in the US and has been associated with overdose fatalities. Its presence often goes unnoticed by many individuals, heightening its danger.

  • Xylazine test strips (XTS) are compact paper strips designed for detecting xylazine in a personal drug sample. These strips serve to guide decisions regarding drug usage practices; for instance, if a positive result is obtained, individuals may choose to abstain from using the drugs altogether or adopt safer usage methods.

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If someone is showing signs and symptoms of a possible opioid overdose, or an overdose involving opioids and xylazine, it’s crucial to act quickly to potentially save their life.

Here’s what you should do:

  • Administer Naloxone (Narcan)

  • Call 911 and remain with the individual until professional help arrives.

  • Perform rescue breathing if necessary. First responders have found rescue breathing particularly beneficial for individuals who have ingested xylazine as it often results in respiratory depression.

More Support Available

National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA)
California Substance Use Line is available 24/7 to California clinicians.

Phone: (844) 326-2626

National Harm Reduction Technical Assistance Center
California Bridge
San Diego County Access & Crisis Line

1-888-724-7240

Naloxone and Fentanyl Test Strips Resources

Call 2-1-1