TDH Reinforces Importance of Naloxone with Rise in Cychlorphine Fatalities

NASHVILLE - The Tennessee Department of Health (TDH) is providing statewide information following more than 30 fatal overdoses statewide, since October 2025, associated with a newly identified opioid known as cychlorphine.

Cychlorphine is a synthetic opioid, 10 times more potent than fentanyl and associated with more than 1,633 fatal overdoses (TDH provisional data) in Tennessee in 2024.

Opioid overdoses should be suspected in situations when a person's breathing slows or stops, they are unresponsive, or they have blue or purple fingernails and lips.

Naloxone, commonly known as the brand Narcan, is a medication that reverses opioid overdoses by restoring breathing. Naloxone is effective with cychlorphine, though it may require repeat dosing.

If an overdose is suspected:
• Call 911 immediately.
• Administer naloxone. Naloxone restores breathing. If the person resumes normal breathing, additional naloxone is not needed but continue to monitor.
• Provide rescue breaths. Supporting breathing is essential while naloxone takes effect. Rescue breathing provides immediate oxygen and can save a life.
• Repeat naloxone if needed. If the person does not respond or breathing slows again, administer another dose.

Carrying naloxone can be lifesaving. People who use opioids, have close friends or family members who do, or are likely to be in contact with someone who uses opioids, should consider carrying it. Naloxone can be obtained from Regional Prevention Specialists with the Tennessee Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services or contacting one of Tennessee's Local Health Departments.

If you or someone you know uses opioids or needs treatment for substance use, visit the Find Help Now website or call the l TN Redline at 1-800-889-9789. Contact Safe Spot at 800-972-0590, for 24/7 live support in an overdose crisis.

Learn more about TDH services and programs at tn.gov/health.

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