Effective June 3, Xylazine is considered a controlled substance in Pennsylvania. On June 3, 2023, the Pennsylvania (PA) Department of Health issued a final order temporarily adding Xylazine to the list of Schedule III drugs under the state’s Controlled Substance, Drug, Device, and Cosmetic Act. This temporary scheduling of Xylazine is to combat increasing human health and safety risks associated with the use of Xylazine when combined with Fentanyl and other narcotics for illicit use. The state order is effective for 1 year and the PA Secretary of Health can extend the temporary scheduling for up to 1 additional year.
What does this mean for Penn researchers? If you are a DEA registrant, maintain the drug as you would any other controlled substance - stored in a securely locked, substantially constructed cabinet and maintain good records. For more information about Controlled Substance Best Practices, review the IACUC Controlled Substances Policy and/or visit our FAQs page (Controlled Substances listed under Table of Contents).
Please note that veterinarians are exempt from this order when dispensing, prescribing for, or administering to a nonhuman species.