ATLANTA, Ga. (Atlanta News First) — A newly emerging synthetic opioid called cychlorphine is showing up in toxicology investigations in parts of the Southeast, and experts warn it may be stronger than fentanyl and harder to detect in the street drug supply.

The Georgia Bureau of Investigation said Monday it has not confirmed any cychlorphine cases in Georgia, but it is watching developments in nearby states.

Cychlorphine, also known as N-propionitrile chlorphine, has been cited in early forensic and public health reporting. The Dilworth Center says limited data exist because the drug is new, but it has appeared in overdose investigations and may be mixed into other substances or pressed into counterfeit pills, meaning users may not know they are taking it.

Jeff Breedlove, a recovery advocate with the American Addiction Recovery Association, said the reports are alarming. Breedlove said he spent 30 years in active addiction.

“My first reaction is be afraid, be very afraid,” Breedlove said.

He said the state should treat the threat as urgent.

“Every family, every business owner, every law enforcement official, and every elected official should be scared to death,” Breedlove said.

In east Tennessee, the Knox County Regional Forensic Center linked cychlorphine to 41 deaths across 11 counties from July 2025 through February 2026, according to reporting that cites the center’s toxicology findings.

Chris Thomas, director of the Knox County Regional Forensic Center, said the drug is being used to alter the street supply and can catch users off guard.

“It is being used to cut and replace fentanyl,” Thomas said. “The typical person who is taking the drug does not and is not aware of what they are taking.”

Thomas said confirmation can take time because it requires bloodwork sent to a lab, and results can take three to four weeks.

The Dilworth Center said naloxone, often known by the brand name Narcan, remains a lifesaving medication, though in suspected cases involving highly potent synthetic opioids, multiple doses may be needed.

Breedlove urged Georgians to avoid unverified pills.

“Don’t take a pill at a party,” he said. “Don’t put anything in your body that didn’t come from your doctor or was factory sealed.”

He also emphasized that recovery is possible.

“Addiction is real and will kill you dead,” Breedlove said. “But recovery is real too.”

Health experts say anyone who suspects an opioid overdose should call 911, give naloxone if available, and stay with the person until help arrives. If the person does not respond or symptoms return, additional doses may be needed.

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