02 Dec 2025
The Office for Health Improvement and Disparities (OHID) has confirmed that following a drug seizure, three deaths in the Borough of Camden are known to be associated with the substance Cychlorphine. Cychlorphine has also been linked to two recent deaths in the South East of England. These deaths are linked to those who have been using heroin, suggesting Cychlorphine has been added to supplies in London and the South East.
Cychlorphine is a novel synthetic opioid. It mimics the effects of heroin and prescription opioids but may be much stronger, even in tiny amounts. Cychlorphine is thought to be as potent as or more potent than Fentanyl.
The effects of Cychlorphine tend to be similar to heroineffects, but are more intense and longer lasting. They include:
Sleepiness or sedation.
Confusion.
Dizziness.
Nausea or vomiting.
Itching.
Constipation.
Slow or difficult breathing.
Loss of consciousness.
Risk of coma or death, especially at high doses.
Because its potency is currently unknown, accidental overdose is highly likely. Mixing synthetic opioids like Cychlorphine with alcohol, or with other sedatives such as benzodiazepines, can have serious consequences: an overdose is more likely, and this can lead to a coma, respiratory failure, and death.
Cychlorphine is an opioid, which means, in case of an overdose, naloxone should be administored quickly if safe to do so. It can reverse the opioid component and may save a life. Beware that due to the strength of Cychlorphine and other synthetic opioids, several doses of naloxone maybe required.
Signs of an overdose include:
Breathlessness or loss of consciousness.
Limp limbs.
Blueish tinge to lips and fingernails.
If you believe someone has taken an overdose:
Make sure the area is safe with nothing around that the individual can hurt themselves on.
Check for signs of an overdose - pinch the ear and gently shake their shoulders to see if they respond.
Call 999 and ask for an ambulance.
If you have access to naloxone, use it. This won't harm them, and it could save a life.
Put them in the recovery position.
Monitor and give support to the individual until the ambulance arrives. You can administer a second dose of naloxone if needed.
Take care of your personal safety and dispose of any unused naloxone or sharp objects.
Share this alert with those who might use similar substances or work with those who do, and encourage them to seek help and advice. Ensure those who need to be are aware of the signs of overdose and the appropriate emergency response, including the use of naloxone where indicated. Report any unusual drug-related presentations or adverse reactions through local reporting channels. Stay alert and share this information.
Raising awareness can prevent harm and save lives.
