Agriculture In-depth-- Xylazine use in animal agriculture (Episode 53)

The South Dakota Department of Health has issued a warning to the public and medical professionals about the threat of fentanyl mixed with xylazine. The Drug Enforcement Administration has reported that this mixture is becoming increasingly widespread and poses a significant risk to public health.

Fentanyl is a potent synthetic opioid that is often mixed with other drugs to increase their effects. Xylazine is a sedative commonly used on large animals such as horses and is not intended for human consumption. The combination of these two substances can lead to respiratory depression, seizures and even death.

In this episode, South Dakota State Veterinarian Dr. Beth Thompson talks about xylazine, how its used and how it should be stored.