What to know about cychlorphine
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San Francisco officials are warning the public about cychlorphine, a powerful new synthetic opioid circulating in the city's illicit drug supply that can be deadly in even the smallest amounts.
Why it matters: Counterfeit pills and other common recreational substances such as cocaine, methamphetamine or MDMA have been found to be laced with the drug, leaving people unaware they're taking it.
Here are five things to know:
💊 It's extremely powerful. Cychlorphine belongs to a family of synthetic opioids called "orphines." It can slow or stop breathing, even in small amounts.
⚠️ It can turn up unexpectedly. The drug has been mixed with substances and found in counterfeit medications.
🧪 It's difficult to detect. Standard fentanyl test strips won't identify cychlorphine. Specialized drug-checking services can, but access remains limited, per the city's Department of Public Health.
🚨 It's already been linked to a local death. A 16-year-old San Francisco boy died in April after reportedly taking what he believed was Xanax. Mayor Daniel Lurie announced four arrests in September following an investigation into counterfeit pills.
🩺 Narcan can reverse an overdose, but multiple doses may be necessary. Officials urge people to call 911 immediately if an overdose is suspected.
The bottom line: Never assume a pill purchased outside a licensed pharmacy is safe, even if it looks like a familiar prescription medication.