Xylazine
Anaesthetics & SedativesA sedative, analgesic, and muscle relaxant that acts as an agonist at alpha-2 adrenergic receptors, reducing the release of the neurotransmitter noradrenaline, thereby producing sedation, analgesia, and muscle relaxation.
Pharmacological information
A class-level scientific overview for general reference — no doses. The ultimate reference is always the locally approved product leaflet and consultation with a veterinarian.
Mechanism of action
A sedative, analgesic, and muscle relaxant that acts as an agonist at alpha-2 adrenergic receptors, reducing the release of the neurotransmitter noradrenaline, thereby producing sedation, analgesia, and muscle relaxation.
Indications
- Sedation and analgesia
- Premedication for anesthesia and in combination with other anesthetics
Contraindications & warnings
- Heart disease, bradycardia, and respiratory insufficiency
- Late pregnancy in cattle — may induce uterine contraction
- Cattle are very sensitive to its effect compared with other species
Drug interactions
- Enhanced central depression with other sedatives and anesthetics
- Its effect is reversed by alpha-2 antagonists (such as atipamezole and yohimbine)
Human-safety warning
Human hazard: accidental self-injection or ingestion may cause severe sedation and a fall in blood pressure and respiration. Seek medical care immediately upon any accidental exposure.
Withdrawal periods
| Species | Meat | Milk | Eggs |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cattle | 14 days | — | — |
| Horses | — | — | — |
| Species | Meat | Milk | Eggs |
|---|---|---|---|
| Horses | — | — | — |
| Species | Meat | Milk | Eggs |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cattle | 1 days | zero | — |
| Horses | 1 days | zero | — |
| Species | Meat | Milk | Eggs |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cattle | 1 days | zero | — |
| Horses | — | — | — |
Recorded adverse effects
openFDA veterinary reports — the numbers are report counts, not a severity rate.
Related products
Sources
- •Withdrawal periods: UK Veterinary Medicines Directorate (VMD).
- •European Medicines Agency (EMA) — Veterinary medicines
- •Merck Veterinary Manual — Pharmacology
- •Always verify the locally approved leaflet and consult a veterinarian.