The federal government has designated xylazine—a powerful veterinary sedative—as an emerging threat due to its presence in fatal overdoses.
Between 2018 and 2021, xylazine-involved overdose deaths in the U.S. rose from 102 to 3,468. Since more than 99% of these deaths involve fentanyl, it’s crucial that individuals who use illicit opioids are well aware of the risks of xylazine. People who ingest xylazine, either intentionally or unintentionally, are at a higher risk of overdose and other issues. Knowing the signs of a potential xylazine addiction and the steps to take can save a life.
Wolf Creek Recovery has seen a recent surge in xylazine use disorders, and we are aware of the dangers of mixing this substance with other depressants like opioids, benzodiazepines, or alcohol. We aim to educate individuals and families on the dangers of substances like xylazine and encourage professional support, as we know it works. Let’s learn more about xylazine use disorder and how to manage it.
Signs of Xylazine Use Disorder
Xylazine is a veterinary sedative classified as an alpha-2 adrenergic agonist. It’s primarily used in animal medicine to induce sedation and provide mild pain relief for procedures. The medication is not approved for human use due to the risks it poses.
However, xylazine has made its way into substances like fentanyl and heroin, putting people at risk, often unknowingly. Once a person becomes dependent on xylazine, they can start showing the signs of substance misuse, including “drug-seeking” behavior. Let’s learn more about the signs of xylazine use disorder so that you know what to be on the lookout for.
Signs of Xylazine Use Disorder on the Body and Mind
Xylazine use disorder is a growing concern, especially in places where “tranq” has infiltrated illicit drug markets. Recognizing the physical and psychological signs of xylazine use can be life saving. Both the physical and behavioral effects of the substance can be severe, making early detection crucial. Below are the behavioral, psychological, and physical changes that you may notice in someone who is using xylazine.
Behavioral Signs of Xylazine Use
Xylazine is a potent sedative, and its effects can be amplified when mixed with other depressants, such as alcohol. People who use xylazine often appear heavily sedated, drifting in and out of consciousness. Memory problems and confusion are also common, with people forgetting recent conversations, appearing unsure of what they are doing, or having trouble following directions. Other behavioral signs to watch for include social withdrawal, erratic mood swings, neglecting personal hygiene, and legal or financial troubles.
Psychological Changes
While the physical dangers of xylazine are more commonly discussed, there are also psychological signs that can be just as concerning. Individuals who use xylazine have trouble staying alert, often experience paranoia or heightened suspicion, and may have sudden changes in temperament. A lack of motivation, memory impairments, and hypervigilance can be other psychological changes seen in a person using xylazine.
Physical Changes
Xylazine is a sedative, so it slows down the body’s functions. This causes people to experience extreme sedation, slow reaction times, rapid heartbeat, nausea or vomiting, changes in pupil size, and a high tolerance to pain. Some physical changes can be serious and cause life-threatening complications, such as slow or shallow breathing, skin lesions, or necrotic ulcers at or near injection sites. These wounds often don’t heal well, requiring specialized medical attention.
“Drug-Seeking” Behavior
“Drug-seeking” behavior refers to a pattern of actions, attitudes, or decisions individuals use to obtain and consume substances like xylazine. This behavior is driven by compulsion, dependency, or unhealthy motives. A common staple of this behavior is “doctor shopping” which involves visiting multiple healthcare providers to obtain additional prescriptions.
However, since xylazine is not approved for use in humans, individuals are unable to access prescriptions from their doctor. Instead, a person who is actively seeking out xylazine might show manipulative or secretive behavior, a sudden interest in substance use, and a desire to mix substances to enhance their effects.
Withdrawal Symptoms or Other Side Effects
Xylazine dampens certain signals in the brain and body, resulting in sedation, reduced pain sensation, and other depressive effects on the central nervous system (CNS). With frequent use, the body and brain may adapt to these effects. When the substance is suddenly discontinued, individuals can experience:
- Anxiety and restlessness
- Increased heart rate and blood pressure
- Tremors or shakiness
- Insomnia or disturbed sleep
- Mood swings and irritability
- Muscle aches
- Sweating, chills, flu-like symptoms
- Cravings for xylazine
Causes and Risk Factors for Xylazine Use Disorder
While xylazine is not approved for human use, it has found its way into illicit drug markets, often in combination with other opioids like fentanyl. The substance can be appealing to some individuals due to its sedative, muscle relaxing, and pain relieving effects. When added to street drugs, xylazine can amplify sedation, enhance euphoria, and deepen the high.
People who are at risk for xylazine use disorder are those who engage in polysubstance use (particularly opioids), those who turn to sedative substances to cope with untreated mental health symptoms, and those who use opioids and other street drugs that could be laced with xylazine. Because it’s inexpensive and widely available, xylazine is often used as a cutting agent.
Get Treatment for Xylazine Use Disorder in Prescott, AZ
Treatment for xylazine use disorder includes medical care, behavioral therapies, and supportive aftercare. There is currently no specific FDA-approved medication for xylazine withdrawal. However, you may be prescribed anti-anxiety medications, sleep aids, or pain relievers to ease the detox process. Because xylazine is often combined with opioids, medication-assisted treatment like methadone or buprenorphine may be used if an opioid use disorder is also present.
For a comprehensive recovery, you must also treat the psychological components of your xylazine use. Xylazine rehab includes effective, evidence-based treatments such as cognitive behavioral therapy, 12-step programs, family and community support, and aftercare planning. Successfully discontinuing xylazine use is a major milestone, but ongoing support (e.g., therapy, support groups, sober living) is vital.
If you’re ready to get help for a xylazine use disorder, reach out to Wolf Creek Recovery today. Our recovery center provides a comprehensive foundation where you can work through your challenges and recover from substance use and co-occurring mental health challenges. We have staff in recovery, ensuring you receive a unique source of support, and we encourage fun and leisure through outdoor therapy. We love to show clients how wonderful their lives can be without substances! Contact us today at 833-732-8202 to learn more about our programs. Build a life you love.
FAQs About the Signs of Xylazine Use
What signs indicate potential xylazine use?
Xylazine is a veterinary sedative, but people sometimes use the substance with opioids to enhance their high or make the high last longer. Signs that someone may be using xylazine include heavy sedation, confusion, hypervigilance, rapid heartbeat, and change in temperament.
Is “drug-seeking” behavior common with xylazine?
Since xylazine is not approved for human use, you can’t obtain a prescription for it. Therefore, you may not see the same “drug-seeking” behavior that you might with prescription opioids. However, once dependent on the substance, people will seek out xylazine to keep them feeling “normal” and prevent withdrawal symptoms.
What are the withdrawal symptoms of xylazine?
Withdrawal symptoms that can occur with xylazine include anxiety, restlessness, tremors, trouble sleeping, muscle aches, mood swings, flu-like symptoms, and cravings for the substance. A medically managed detox program can treat these symptoms so that they’re less intense.
