Public Safety Advisory: DEA Warns of Heightened Threat from Fentanyl Mixed with Emerging Synthetic Drugs

The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) has issued a new Public Safety Advisory warning about an increasingly dangerous illicit drug supply driven by fentanyl mixed with powerful synthetic substances such as xylazine, nitazenes, cychlorphine, and medetomidine. These combinations are making the drug supply more unpredictable and more deadly than ever before.

Many of these substances are not approved for human use and may be unknowingly mixed into counterfeit pills or illicit drugs. Some are even more potent than fentanyl, greatly increasing the risk of fatal overdose.

What Are These Emerging Substances?

• Xylazine and medetomidine – non-opioid sedatives used by veterinarians to sedate animals. Since these sedatives are not opioids, naloxone may not fully reverse their effects.

• Nitazenes and cychlorphine – highly potent, unregulated synthetic opioids that can be even stronger than fentanyl. Multiple doses of naloxone may be needed for an effective overdose response.

The DEA Urges the Public To:

• Never take pills not prescribed by a licensed pharmacy

• Assume illicit drugs may contain fentanyl or other dangerous additives

• Carry naloxone and know how to use it

• Call 911 immediately in any suspected overdose emergency

• Stay informed and share accurate information

Read the Advisory