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FLORIDA - Florida officials announced plans to classify xylazine, a veterinary tranquilizer, as a Schedule I controlled substance starting in 2025.
Attorney General James Uthmeier said the move aims to curb the recreational use of the drug, which is increasingly linked to overdoses and serious health risks.
Xylazine, known on the street as “tranq,” “tranq dope,” or the “zombie drug,” is commonly used by veterinarians to sedate horses, cattle, and other large animals.
The drug allows safe medical evaluation, treatments, and surgical procedures.
Florida’s new rules include exemptions for licensed veterinarians, farmers, and ranchers, ensuring access for legitimate livestock care.
“Florida farmers and ranchers depend on veterinarians having the tools they need to safely treat livestock,” Uthmeier said.
Officials warned that xylazine becomes dangerous when used recreationally, particularly when mixed with opioids like fentanyl or heroin.
Unlike opioid overdoses, xylazine overdoses cannot be reversed with Narcan.
The DEA reported seizures of xylazine-fentanyl combinations in nearly every state in 2023.
Sarasota County recorded one of the largest increases in xylazine-related deaths in Florida, and the drug has been linked to severe skin lesions, earning it the nickname “zombie drug.”
Under the Schedule I classification, only licensed veterinarians can obtain or dispense xylazine, and farmers and ranchers may receive prescriptions through veterinarians.
Public possession or sale remains illegal, and misuse outside approved veterinary use is a criminal offense.
Florida Agriculture Commissioner Wilton Simpson said the rule targets abuse while maintaining access for legitimate veterinary purposes.