The veterinary anesthetic xylazine has been detected in limited quantities of illicit drugs seized by local law enforcement in Los Angeles County, signaling that the substance is present in the illegal drug supply, officials said on Aug. 10.
Xylazine is not FDA-approved for human consumption. It can cause dangerously low blood pressure, a decrease in breathing rate and heart rate, and damage to tissue that can lead to skin wounds, large sores, and ulcers when consumed by people, authorities say.
