A popular drug often used on large animal farms is getting extra attention from the FDA after concerns that Xylazine is showing up in illicit drugs.
Xylazine is often used by veterinarians to sedate large animals like horses and deer but FDA officials say it is increasingly being found in drugs like Fentanyl, and has been detected in several overdose deaths.
“The FDA remains concerned about the increasing prevalence of xylazine mixed with illicit drugs, and this action is one part of broader efforts the agency is undertaking to address this issue,” FDA Commissioner Robert M. Califf, M.D. said. “We will continue to use all tools at our disposal and partner with the Drug Enforcement Administration and other federal, state, local agencies and stakeholders as appropriate to stem these illicit activities and protect public health.”
Any imports of Xylazine will now face FDA review. Staff will be looking for evidence from the importer that it’s being used for legitimate veterinarian uses. The FDA hopes to prevents the drug from entering the U.S. market for illicit purposes while still making it available for veterinarians to use legitimately on large animals.
