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.

Secretary Patrick Allen of NMHealth emphasized the seriousness of this discovery, stating, “The identification of xylazine puts us on notice that an already dangerous drug supply has gotten that much more deadly.”

The Adulterant Checking Program, initiated in November 2023, allows individuals to have substances tested before use as part of the Harm Reduction Program. Joshua Swatek, NMHealth Hepatitis and Harm Reduction Program Manager, highlighted the importance of this program in detecting new drugs in illegal substances in real-time, potentially saving lives.

Xylazine, a central nervous system depressant, can cause various effects in humans, including sedation, drowsiness, slurred speech, and flesh wounds. NMHealth recommends tips to reduce overdose risk and death, including the availability of xylazine testing strips at harm reduction sites statewide.

As a response to this discovery, NMHealth is enhancing training and providing additional resources to address the impact of xylazine in communities. Harm reduction providers and naloxone resources can be accessed through NMHIVGuide.org and NMHarmReduction.org respectively.

For further inquiries, individuals can contact David Morgan at 575-528-5197 (Office) or 575-649-0754 (Mobile).