LAS VEGAS – Las Vegas authorities have issued a warning after lab tests found the animal tranquilizer Xylazine, also known as Tranq, mixed into street drugs in the valley. Xylazine is commonly used on horses, but it is now being mixed with other drugs to increase the amount and profitability of the product, according to the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department. The drug can extend a high, slow breathing, cause lethargy, and lead to death.

President Biden has identified the combination of Fentanyl and Xylazine as an emerging threat to the United States. The drug has made its way to Las Vegas from the East Coast, similar to Fentanyl, said police. While the quantity of Xylazine detected locally is not significant, with only around 12 incidents of it found in pills, police are still concerned about the drug’s potential dangers.

Captain Branden Clarkson of Metro’s Major Violators Narcotics Crimes Bureau said that Xylazine is a non-opioid, which means that Narcan, used to counteract the effects of Fentanyl, does not work on it. People should still be given Narcan as Fentanyl may be part of the overdose, but those overdosing on Xylazine should seek medical treatment immediately, he said.

The police have announced their plans to raise awareness about Xylazine and its potential risks. Senator Catherine Cortez Masto has introduced a bill to federal regulations, including the DEA’s list of scheduled drugs, that would add the illegal use of Xylazine for humans. “I don’t want some kid to be at a party, or peer pressure, or whatever it is. It’s just not worth it. It’s not worth it at all. If it scares me, it should scare anyone else,” said Captain Branden Clarkson.

Credits: Fox 5 Vegas

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