Effective May 15, 2024, xylazine is considered a controlled substance in Pennsylvania. On May 15, the Pennsylvania Governor signed House Bill 1661 into law, permanently adding xylazine to the list of Schedule III drugs under the state’s Controlled Substance, Drug, Device, and Cosmetic Act. This legislation serves to combat increasing human health and safety risks associated with the use of xylazine when combined with fentanyl and other narcotics for illicit use.
What does this mean for Penn State researchers working with xylazine?
Researchers working with xylazine but no other DEA controlled substances will not need to obtain a DEA registration at this time, but the following guidance will still apply to them:
- Xylazine will need to be kept securely stored and only accessible by authorized personnel.
- Authorized personnel should be under the direct supervisory control of the Principal Investigator responsible for the research in which xylazine will be used.
- Number of personnel with access should be limited to minimize risk of diversion.
- Personnel working with xylazine must maintain accurate and complete records of its use including, but not limited to, the following:
- Current list of Authorized personnel with access,
- Records documenting ordering/purchasing, formulating/reconstituting, inventory, usage/administration, and disposal.
- Important: Records must accurately track xylazine from initial acquisition to final disposition (usage or disposal).
- Xylazine and any formulations containing xylazine must be disposed of as controlled materials.
Need more information or have questions about procurement, handling, storage, and disposal of controlled substances?
