The resolution urges the New Jersey Department of Health (DOH) to enhance public awareness regarding the dangers associated with xylazine, a non-opioid veterinary tranquilizer that has emerged as a concerning street drug, commonly referred to as Tranq or the Zombie Drug. Xylazine is not approved for human use and has been linked to a rising number of overdose deaths in New Jersey and neighboring states. As a central nervous system depressant, it can lead to severe health issues, including drowsiness, amnesia, and dangerously low levels of breathing, heart rate, and blood pressure. The resolution highlights the alarming trend of xylazine being used in combination with other drugs, particularly illicit fentanyl, which exacerbates the risk of life-threatening overdoses.

The resolution calls for the DOH to take proactive measures to educate the public about the risks of xylazine use, emphasizing the need for appropriate educational resources. It notes that xylazine is often used in various ways, including injection, snorting, and inhalation, and that repeated use can result in serious complications such as skin ulcers and abscesses. Importantly, since xylazine is not an opioid, traditional overdose treatments like naloxone are ineffective, making awareness and education critical in addressing this public health threat. The resolution aims to ensure that New Jerseyans are informed about the dangers of xylazine and the potential consequences of its use.