Drug alert: Tranq/xylazine found locally

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The Community Drug Strategy for the City of Greater Sudbury has received confirmation that tranq/non-opioid ‘xylazine’ has been found locally in Sudbury and districts. A person may be exposed to xylazine when using other substances.

What is xylazine?

Xylazine is an animal tranquilizer. It is not intended for human use and when consumed in combination with other drugs, increases the risk of overdose.

When the body is unable to handle the effects of substances, an overdose may occur and can be fatal. A person might pass out or stop breathing. Do not use substances alone to ensure an immediate response in the event of an emergency.

Prevent overdoses to save lives:

Overdose symptoms include:

How to respond to an overdose:

These steps are especially important as xylazine decreases breathing and the effects can last for 8 to 72 hours.  

Where to get naloxone?

For a free naloxone kit, contact The Point at Public Health Sudbury & Districts, Réseau Access Network, Sudbury Action Centre for Youth (SACY), or ask your local hospital or pharmacy. Or, visit www.ontario.ca/page/get-naloxone-kits-free.

Be cautious if using drugs and please distribute this information widely to help save lives.


This item was last modified on February 16, 2023