Xylazine is antagonized by which substance?

Xylazine is a sedative and analgesic that works primarily as an agonist at alpha-2 adrenergic receptors. When it is necessary to reverse the effects of xylazine, yohimbine serves as an effective antagonist. Yohimbine works by blocking these alpha-2 adrenergic receptors, thereby counteracting the sedative and analgesic effects of xylazine.

Using yohimbine leads to increased release of norepinephrine due to inhibition of feedback mechanisms that normally limit its release when alpha-2 receptors are activated. This property makes yohimbine particularly useful in veterinary practice when there is a need to reverse the sedation caused by xylazine, allowing the animal to regain normal function more quickly and safely.

In contrast, the other substances listed do not function as effective antagonists to xylazine. Acepromazine is an antipsychotic and tranquilizer, but it does not reverse xylazine's effects. Atipamezole is specifically targeted for reversing the effects of dexmedetomidine and similar alpha-2 agonists, but not xylazine. Diazepam, while it can provide sedation and muscle relaxation, does not reverse the effects of xylazine and is