04/22/2026
ATTENTION:
Cychlorphine
The Burke County Sheriff’s Office is warning the public about a dangerous synthetic opioid known as cychlorphine.
Cychlorphine is the street name for N-propionitrile chlorphine, a novel synthetic opioid that bears structural similarity to other benzimidazolones. It belongs to an emerging subclass of synthetic opioids often referred to as “orphine analogs,” or “orphines.” Chlorphine gained national attention following overdose deaths in East Tennessee in November and December 2025.
Cychlorphine is an ultra-potent opioid, estimated to be 10 to 20 times stronger than fentanyl. It has been detected in multiple states across the U.S., including South Carolina, and has been identified in overdose death cases nationwide.
At this time, cychlorphine is not a federally controlled substance and is not currently scheduled as a controlled substance in North Carolina.
This substance is often mixed with other illegal drugs, significantly increasing the risk of overdose and death for individuals who may not realize what they are taking.
At this time, the Burke County Sheriff’s Office has not encountered cychlorphine locally; however, that does not mean it is not present in our area.
Use extreme caution:
• Avoid unknown pills or powders
• Do not handle suspicious substances
• Call 911 immediately if an overdose is suspected
If you encounter a suspicious substance, contact law enforcement.
The Burke County Sheriff’s Office remains committed to protecting our community.
Stay aware. Stay safe.
