The Kentucky Office of Homeland Security is warning residents and public safety officials about the emergence of Cychlorphine, a highly potent synthetic drug that officials say is significantly stronger than fentanyl.
The substance has been detected in central Kentucky and has been linked to overdose deaths in neighboring regions, including eastern Tennessee. Officials warn the drug is often mixed with other illegal narcotics, placing users at risk of unintentional exposure.
Authorities believe its presence could expand to additional areas across the Commonwealth.
The advisory urges first responders, healthcare providers and law enforcement to exercise extreme caution when handling unknown substances and to use appropriate personal protective equipment to prevent accidental exposure. Suspected Cychlorphine-related overdoses should be treated as medical emergencies and reported to local public safety authorities.
Officials are also encouraging the public to remain vigilant, avoid contact with unknown substances and report suspicious activity to law enforcement.
