For the first time, the New Mexico Department of Health (NMHealth) has confirmed the presence of xylazine in three fentanyl samples tested through the state’s Adulterant Checking Program.

Xylazine, also known as “tranq,” is a nonopioid, central nervous system depressant. It is most often used in veterinary medicine and is not approved for use in humans. Xylazine has been commonly found in combination with heroin and illicitly manufactured fentanyl in the eastern U.S. for years, but this is the first time it has been officially identified in New Mexico.

“The identification of xylazine puts us on notice that an already dangerous drug supply has gotten that much more deadly,” said Sec. Patrick Allen of NMHealth in a press release. “Proactive measures like our Adulterant Checking Program serve as vital tools in our efforts to protect public health and empower individuals to make informed decisions about substance use. Still, there is no substitute for effective treatment and long-term recovery.”

The Adulterant Checking Program, which began in November, allows people accessing services through the Harm Reduction Program to bring in small amounts of a substance to be tested to determine its contents before use. 

Harm reduction is a model of practical principles and strategies that aim to reduce substance use’s negative consequences and risks. New Mexico was an early adopter of harm reduction programming, with services available since 1998.

Testing is offered at two sites, one in Albuquerque and Española. Xylazine was found in fentanyl samples tested at each location and was not associated with an overdose.

“We were hopeful xylazine would not find its way into New Mexico,” said Joshua Swatek, NMHealth Hepatitis and Harm Reduction program manager. “However, the Adulterant Checking Program exists in part to identify new drugs in illegal substances in real-time. That has the potential to save lives.”