Xylazine is a non-opioid sedative found in the unregulated drug supply with potentially harmful health impacts, especially when added to illicitly manufactured fentanyl. Xylazine is not responsive to naloxone, leading to complicated fentanyl overdoses.

Governor Kathy Hochul announced that a new ordering system will enable providers and New York State residents to order test strips through a partnership with NY MATTERS. These test strips are designed to detect the presence of xylazine that has been mixed in with other substances, such as cocaine or heroin.

The New York State Office of Addiction Services and Supports (OASAS) is also making xylazine test strips available to its network of Outreach and Engagement Services providers across the State and through its ongoing training programs.

These efforts are being supported through New York State’s Opioid Settlement Fund and through a federal State Opioid Response Grant. To access ordering information, providers can visit the OASAS harm reduction webpage at https://oasas.ny.gov/xylazine

Xylazine, a non-opioid veterinary tranquilizer not approved for human use, is being found mixed with fentanyl and other opioids in communities nationwide. Added to these street drugs to extend their effects, xylazine also increases the already serious risk of a drug overdose.

Because it is not an opioid, xylazine does not respond to naloxone (Narcan®), the opioid overdose-reversing medication. Repeated use of xylazine is also associated with severe skin ulcers, abscesses, and related complications.

Media reports indicate xylazine has been found in cities nationwide, including in 90% of Philadelphia’s street drug supply. In the Chautauqua County region, lab analyses of drugs seized by local law enforcement agencies have also discovered the presence of xylazine.

Resources to help those struggling with substance use can be found at CombatAddictionCHQ.com. Individuals who continue to use illicit drugs are advised that naloxone, while ineffective against xylazine, does still reverse the effects of opioids present in someone experiencing an overdose.