What is Tranq?
Tranq is a mixture of Xylazine (a tranquilizer used for large animals like horses) and Fentanyl. It was first seen in Puerto Rico in the late 1990’s/early 2000’s and began making its way through the United States since the early 2010’s. Today, it has been seen in approximately 40 states and has been found in over 90% of the heroin supply in Philadelphia. It is estimated to be in approximately 50-70% of the heroin supply in New Jersey.
Risks and Side Effects
Not much is known about Tranq, as Xylazine is not approved for use or study in humans. The information that is known brings new dangers to individuals struggling with substance use. Side effects include decrease in heart rate and blood pressure, blackouts, respiratory depression (slow, shallow breathing), withdrawal, and dramatically increased risk of overdose. In the event of an opiate overdose, Narcan can be administered to reverse the effects of the overdose. However, Xylazine is not an opiate, making Narcan less effective. Wounds and infections have been common side effects of Tranq use: they can appear if a person uses IV, nasally, or via smoking, they can appear anywhere on the body, and are often treated with the severity of a 3rd degree burn that require intensive wound care.
How Can I Stay Safe?
It’s impossible to know what’s really in what you’re buying. The CDC presently recommends seeking treatment, even if you’re not sure that you’re ready to stop. Staying informed and receiving up to date information from trusted sources and seeking treatment for wounds is crucial.
– Stephanie Riordan, LPC, LCADC
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