Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro is poised to enact legislation aimed at curbing the misuse of xylazine, a potent animal tranquilizer that has been implicated in the surge of fatal drug overdoses. His office announced this development on Wednesday.
Xylazine, commonly employed by veterinarians for managing and treating various animals, will retain its legality for veterinary purposes. However, its incorporation into illicit opioids like fentanyl has contributed to a concerning rise in overdose fatalities among humans.
The bipartisan bill secured endorsement from both chambers of the Pennsylvania Legislature in the preceding week, garnering widespread support for its measures to address the misuse of xylazine.
Once signed into law, xylazine will be classified as a “schedule III” controlled substance under Pennsylvania’s regulatory framework for controlled substances. This formalizes an executive order issued by Governor Shapiro last year, aligning Pennsylvania with other states that have moved to restrict access to xylazine.
While xylazine is essential for sedating animals such as farm livestock, wildlife, and household pets, its diversion for recreational purposes, often mixed with fentanyl and heroin, has become alarmingly prevalent. According to the Drug Enforcement Administration, xylazine was implicated in approximately 3,000 drug-related deaths across the United States in 2021.
Per the new legislation, the illicit use of schedule III drugs carries penalties of up to five years’ imprisonment. Moreover, stringent regulations will mandate the secure storage of xylazine in professional settings to deter theft and unauthorized access.
Recognizing the gravity of the situation, federal authorities designated xylazine-laced fentanyl as an “emerging threat” last year. Consequently, initiatives to bolster testing, treatment, and interception of illegal xylazine shipments have been introduced.
The dangers of xylazine abuse extend beyond overdose risks. In humans, it can precipitate perilous declines in respiratory and cardiac functions. Injection of the drug may result in severe tissue damage and infections, sometimes necessitating amputation.
Governor Shapiro’s forthcoming enactment of this legislation underscores Pennsylvania’s commitment to combatting the opioid crisis and safeguarding public health against the perilous ramifications of substance misuse.
