Legislation Reintroduced to Address Illicit Xylazine While Maintaining Veterinary Access

A new bill has been reintroduced in Congress to tackle the growing issue of illicit xylazine use while ensuring veterinarians retain access to the drug for essential medical treatments.

Xylazine, a prescription sedative primarily used in veterinary medicine, has increasingly been found mixed with fentanyl and other narcotics in illicit drug markets. This combination poses significant health risks to human users. However, xylazine remains a critical tool for veterinarians, particularly in the care of cattle, horses, wildlife, and research animals, with no practical alternative for sedation in cattle.

The Combating Illicit Xylazine Act aims to classify xylazine as a Schedule III controlled substance, granting the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) greater authority to regulate its distribution and curb its illicit use. The bill is designed to maintain veterinarians’ legal access while providing oversight of the legitimate supply chain. Both the DEA and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) have expressed support for the legislation.

Addressing a Public Health Concern

Xylazine has become a key component in illicit drug mixtures, with most of the supply diverted for illegal use originating from veterinary sources. The DEA has already begun the administrative process of scheduling xylazine as a controlled substance, but without legislative action, this could create unintended consequences for veterinary medicine, including supply disruptions and limitations on its use.

State-level restrictions on xylazine have led to a patchwork of regulations, making it difficult for manufacturers and distributors to navigate compliance while maintaining availability for veterinary use. Federal legislation would provide a uniform regulatory framework to prevent further fragmentation.

Moving the Bill Forward

The bill was reintroduced in both the House and Senate with bipartisan support after previous attempts stalled due to procedural hurdles. The new push for passage reflects growing concern over xylazine’s role in the illicit drug trade while balancing the needs of veterinary medicine.

If passed, the Combating Illicit Xylazine Act would:

• Ensure veterinarians continue to have access to xylazine for medical use.

• Provide the DEA with tools to track and regulate its distribution.

• Reduce the risk of supply chain disruptions that could impact animal welfare and human safety.

As Congress debates the next steps, the focus remains on finding a solution that addresses illicit xylazine use without compromising veterinary care.