What is Xylazine Withdrawal?

Xylazine withdrawal in humans refers to the set of symptoms and physiological changes that may occur when an individual who has been using xylazine, also known as tranq, abruptly discontinues or reduces its use. Xylazine is primarily used as a sedative and analgesic in large animals. While not approved for human use, there has been an increase in xylazine used as an additive to heroin, cocaine, and fentanyl.

Due to its lack of approval for human use, there is less knowledge on how to treat xylazine abuse. Read on with Avenues Recovery, leading addiction treatment specialists, to learn more about withdrawal from xylazine, the timeline, symptoms, and how to manage it all safely. 

Xylazine Withdrawal Symptoms

Using xylazine affects the body in various ways, and abruptly withdrawing from it can be painful and bring its own set of symptoms.

Xylazine withdrawal symptoms may include:

• Anxiety: A heightened state of nervousness or unease.
• Agitation: Restlessness or a feeling of nervousness and unease. 
• Slowed Breathing: Xylazine can cause slower breathing. 
• Insomnia: Difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep.
• Sweating: Excessive sweating, which can be a common withdrawal symptom. 
• Tremors: Involuntary shaking or trembling of the body. 
• Nausea: A feeling of queasiness or an inclination to vomit. 
• Elevated Heart Rate: An increased heart rate, palpitations, or a feeling of a racing heart. 
• Muscle Aches: Discomfort or pain in the muscles.

Xylazine Withdrawal Management

Here are some general principles that may be considered in managing tranq withdrawal symptoms:

• Inpatient or Outpatient Care: Depending on the severity of withdrawal, individuals may require inpatient care for close monitoring and management. In less severe cases, outpatient care may be appropriate.
• Gradual Reduction: In some cases, a gradual reduction in the dosage of the substance may be recommended to minimize the severity of withdrawal symptoms and detox.
• Follow-up Care: After the acute withdrawal phase, ongoing support and follow-up care are essential to address any lingering psychological symptoms and reduce the risk of relapse.

Treatment for Xylazine Withdrawal

The general approach to managing xylazine withdrawal symptoms can involve:

• Medical Evaluation: A healthcare provider will assess the individual's overall health, withdrawal symptoms' severity, and potential complications. Clonidine for xylazine withdrawal should be the first-line medication for dealing with symptoms of withdrawal unless a patient is allergic to it. Other options include benzos (administered every 4-6 hours to alleviate anxiety), dexmedetomidine, tizanidine, and guanfacine. If opioid abuse is concurrent with xylazine abuse then naloxone should also be administered. Additionally, a phenobarbital taper may be used to gradually wean the patient off xylazine.
• Supportive Care: Supportive care may include hydration, nutrition, opening of the airways for breathing, monitoring vital signs, and using activated charcoal to decrease absorption into the stomach.
• Symptom Management: Addressing specific withdrawal symptoms such as anxiety, insomnia, and nausea through appropriate medications and interventions. Most patients will require a tapering-off process for benzodiazepines before hospital discharge.
• Hospitalization: Severe cases of withdrawal may require hospitalization for closer monitoring and management.
• Behavioral and Psychological Support: Providing a safe and supportive environment in recovery is essential. In some cases, individuals may benefit from counseling or behavioral therapy to address underlying issues contributing to substance misuse.
  This may include treatment for mild withdrawal symptoms with medications such as gabapentin and antipsychotics.

Xylazine Withdrawal Time 

The xylazine withdrawal timeline can vary significantly among individuals and is influenced by different factors, including: 

• Duration and extent of xylazine use
• Dosage levels
• Individual physiology
• Co-occurring health conditions. 

Additionally, limited research has been conducted on the withdrawal profile of xylazine.

In general, withdrawal symptoms from substances like xylazine may begin within a few hours to a day after the last use and can persist for several days. The acute phase of withdrawal may involve symptoms such as: 

• Anxiety
• Irritability
• Restlessness
• Severe hypertension. 

These symptoms may be followed by a more protracted phase characterized by lingering psychological symptoms and an increased risk of relapse.

Xylazine Withdrawal: Get Help for Xylazine Addiction

Navigating the path of xylazine withdrawal and addiction recovery can be frightening, but having the right support can make all the difference. Our staff are experts in their fields and use evidence-based therapies to give you the best chance of recovery. Contact Avenues Recovery today to experience high-quality, expert, and caring guidance every step of the way to recovery. Make the first move towards a brighter, healthier, and addiction-free future.