Xylazine in Jacksonville: What Families Should Know About Tranq

This page is general information, not medical advice. Please don’t stop or change any medication or substance without talking to a doctor first.

What xylazine is

Xylazine, sometimes called “tranq” or “tranq dope,” is a non-opioid sedative, or tranquilizer. The CDC says it is not approved for use in people and is being found in the U.S. illegal drug supply, where it is linked to overdose deaths.

The CDC explains that cocaine, heroin and fentanyl can be mixed with xylazine, either to boost the effect or to add weight and street value. Many people don’t know it is in their drugs.

What it does to the body

When people take it, the CDC says xylazine can cause:

• Heavy sedation and difficulty breathing
• Dangerously low blood pressure and a slowed heart rate
• Wounds that can become infected
• Severe withdrawal symptoms
• Death, especially when combined with opioids like fentanyl

Why naloxone still helps

Naloxone (Narcan) reverses opioids. It does not reverse xylazine. But the CDC is clear: because xylazine is often mixed with opioids like fentanyl, naloxone should still be given for any suspected overdose. It will not cause harm if opioids aren’t involved.

If you think someone is overdosing, the CDC says to:

• Give naloxone, and know that the effects of xylazine may continue after it
• Call 911 and stay with the person until help arrives
• Give rescue breaths if you know how, since xylazine slows breathing
• Roll them onto their side into the recovery position, as harm reduction experts suggest

Florida gives out free naloxone through the state’s iSaveFL program, and the health department in Duval County hands it out at several clinics. See free naloxone in Jacksonville.

Wounds: please see a doctor

Xylazine is known for causing skin wounds. The CDC says these wounds can get infected and worsen quickly. When treated early, they can be managed with basic wound care. Left untreated, the CDC warns they can lead to amputation or become life-threatening.

If your loved one has a sore that won’t heal, is spreading, smells or looks dark, encourage them to see a doctor, urgent care or an emergency room soon. They don’t have to be ready for addiction treatment to get wound care.

Wound care can also be a gentle way back into the health system. A visit for a sore leg is less scary than a visit about drug use, and the doctor or nurse may be able to talk about treatment options when your loved one is ready.

Withdrawal from xylazine

The CDC lists severe withdrawal among the effects of xylazine. Because xylazine usually comes mixed with fentanyl, a person may go through opioid withdrawal and xylazine withdrawal at the same time. That is hard to manage at home, and it is one more reason to involve a medical team before your loved one stops.