The South Carolina Attorney General's (SCAG) office is warning residents and law enforcement about a new, life-threatening synthetic opioid recently discovered in the state.
Known as cychlorphine, the drug poses a serious threat with even trace amounts potentially resulting in overdose or death. Attorney General Alan Wilson cautions that cychlorphine is designed to be more potent, more addictive and more difficult to detect.
In a statement, Wilson says:
“This is poison, plain and simple. We are seeing foreign adversaries and drug cartels working together to flood our communities with these deadly substances. They don’t care who they kill. Their goal is profit, and the cost is American lives. Parents need to understand how serious this is and talk to their kids now, because one mistake, one exposure, can be fatal. We will use every tool at our disposal to stop this and protect South Carolina families.”
According to the Behavioral Health Services of Pickens County, Naloxone (Narcan) can reverse an opioid overdose and save a life. However, with potent opioids like cychlorphine, multiple doses may be needed.
The attorney general urges parents to talk with their children immediately, noting that a single exposure can be deadly. Law enforcement and first responders also are advised to exercise heightened caution, as even incidental exposure may carry serious risks.