The emergence of xylazine-laced fentanyl has raised significant concerns among medical professionals. This article explores the efforts made by regulatory bodies and lawmakers to address this issue and minimize its impact. The complications associated with xylazine are alarming, particularly the necrotizing wounds it causes in injection drug users. To combat this problem, measures have been taken at various levels, including import alerts, national response plans, and changes in legislation.
In response to the growing problem of xylazine-laced fentanyl, the FDA implemented an import alert in February. This alert enabled FDA staff to detain shipments of any xylazine product that appeared to violate the law. The agency focused on ensuring proper labeling, absence of adulteration, and legitimate veterinary use during xylazine entry reviews. These measures were aimed at preventing the distribution of contaminated fentanyl in the market.
Recognizing xylazine-tainted fentanyl as an “emerging drug threat,” the White House Office of National Drug Control Policy (ONDCP) published a National Response Plan in July. This plan aimed to coordinate a comprehensive response against xylazine-laced fentanyl by implementing strategies such as testing for xylazine, improving data collection, disrupting the supply chain, and exploring regulatory options. The ONDCP actively involved agencies like the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and the Department of Homeland Security to address this issue.
The House of Representatives passed the Support for Patients and Communities Reauthorization (SUPPORT) Act of 2023 with an overwhelming majority. This legislation includes a provision to permanently place xylazine in Schedule III of the Controlled Substances Act while ensuring access for veterinarians and ranchers for animal use. The AVMA praised this bill for addressing the xylazine problem while preserving its essential role in veterinary medicine. However, concerns have been raised about potential exemptions for the veterinary industry from certain laws that apply to Schedule III drugs.
The battle against xylazine-laced fentanyl faces significant challenges, including the lack of a national tracking system for xylazine-positive overdose deaths. Not all jurisdictions routinely conduct testing for xylazine in postmortem toxicology, making it difficult to quantify the extent of the problem. Furthermore, the passage of the SUPPORT Act in the Senate remains uncertain at this time.
While efforts are being made to combat the xylazine issue, experts have expressed caution regarding the potential collaboration between the veterinary industry and Congress. Andrew Kolodny, an expert in opioid policy and addiction medicine, has raised concerns about potential exemptions for xylazine manufacturers, distributors, and veterinarians from certain regulatory requirements. It is essential to ensure that all substances are properly scheduled and regulated, regardless of their origin.
The emergence of xylazine-laced fentanyl has prompted regulatory bodies and lawmakers to take significant steps to combat this problem. Import alerts, national response plans, and legislative changes have been implemented to tackle the issue. However, challenges remain, including the need for a national tracking system and potential concerns about exemptions for the veterinary industry. As the fight against xylazine-laced fentanyl continues, it is crucial to balance the control of illicit substances with the legitimate veterinary use of xylazine.