DEA Warns of a More Dangerous Emerging Drug Supply
The drug supply in the United States is changing quickly, and it is becoming more dangerous and unpredictable. A recent alert from the Drug Enforcement Administration warns that illicit fentanyl is increasingly being mixed with other powerful synthetic substances, including xylazine, nitazenes, cychlorphine, and medetomidine. Many of these substances are not approved for human use, and people may have no idea they are present in a pill, powder, or other drug.
When fentanyl is combined with other highly potent substances such as xylazine, nitazenes, cychlorphine, and medetomidine, the risk of a fatal overdose can rise even more. Some of these emerging drugs can be stronger than fentanyl. Others can cause long-lasting sedation, serious wounds, infections, or rapid breathing problems. Because these substances may be hidden in counterfeit pills or illicit drugs, there is often no way to know what someone is actually taking.
One of the main concerns is that some of these substances do not respond to naloxone in the same way opioids do. Naloxone is a lifesaving medication that can reverse an opioid overdose, and everyone is still encouraged to carry it and know how to use it. However, substances such as xylazine and medetomidine are not opioids, so naloxone may not fully reverse their effects. Other synthetic opioids, such as nitazenes and cychlorphine, may require more than one dose of naloxone.
That is why calling 911 right away is so important in any suspected overdose or drug poisoning. Even when Narcan (naloxone) is used, emergency medical care may still be needed. Time matters, and quick action can save a life.
It is important to know the signs of a possible overdose or drug poisoning. These may include:
Slow, shallow, or stopped breathing
Blue or gray lips or fingertips
Choking, gurgling, or snoring sounds
Extreme sleepiness or inability to wake up
Limpness
Cold or clammy skin
Loss of consciousness
If something does not seem right, act quickly.
There are steps each of us can take to help protect ourselves, our loved ones, and our community:
Never take a pill that was not prescribed to you and dispensed by a licensed pharmacy. Counterfeit pills can look very similar to real medications, but they may contain fentanyl or other dangerous additives.
Assume that any illicit drug could contain fentanyl or another harmful substance.
Carry naloxone if you can, learn how to use it, and encourage friends and family members to do the same.
Talking openly and compassionately about these risks is also important. Substance use can affect people from all walks of life, and shame or fear can make it harder for someone to ask for help. A caring conversation, a shared resource, or a willingness to listen can make a real difference.
This is a rapidly evolving public health threat, but awareness and prevention remain powerful tools. By staying informed, looking out for one another, and responding quickly in an emergency, we can help reduce risk and save lives. If you or someone you know is struggling with substance use or mental health, we are here to help. Call us at 916.875.1055 or visit https://dhs.saccounty.gov/BHS/Pages/BHS-Home.aspx.
