Urgent Warning: Drug 10 Times More Potent Than Fentanyl Claims First Los Angeles Victim

Los Angeles health officials have issued an urgent warning about an opioid 10 times more potent than fentanyl after claiming its first victim in Los Angeles County.

Los Angeles Department of Public Health officials said a death in February was linked to cychlorphine, a powerful synthetic opioid like fentanyl and heroin.

Authorities warn of the extreme potency of the drug, which can kill users even in small doses.

In April, San Francisco health officials linked a fatal overdose to cychlorphine, making it the first time the drug had been detected in the city.

Authorities warned the drug was being mixed into the illicit drug supply without people’s knowledge, saying it was currently undetectable by fentanyl test strips.

This powerful opioid has been present in the U.S. drug supply since 2024 and has been detected in 19 states.

Authorities warn that cychlorphine is not limited to pills and can be hidden in several illicit drugs, making detection and avoidance particularly difficult.

The drug has been found in counterfeit liquids, rocks or crystals, powders and tablets designed to look like prescription drugs, according to the health warning.

The DEA classified cychlorphine as a Schedule I drug in August 2026, making it illegal to possess or sell, officials said.

To minimize the risk of sudden death, health officials urged residents to never use drugs alone, not to mix drugs and to carry naloxone.

Naloxone is a life-saving medication that can reverse an opioid overdose and restore breathing, according to county health officials.

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