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Union City Today
By the People, for the People
19 Overdose Deaths Linked to New Synthetic Opioid in East Tennessee
Emerging drug N-Propionitrile Chlorphine is 10 times more potent than fentanyl, officials say.
Published on Feb. 13, 2026
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The Knox County Regional Forensic Center is investigating 19 overdose deaths in East Tennessee that are linked to the emerging synthetic opioid N-Propionitrile Chlorphine, also known as cychlorphine. 12 cases have been confirmed so far, with 7 more awaiting laboratory confirmation. The drug is approximately 10 times more potent than fentanyl and does not show up on standard toxicology screens, posing challenges for first responders.
Why it matters
The rise of new synthetic opioids like cychlorphine is an alarming trend, as they can be much more potent and dangerous than traditional opioids. This cluster of overdose deaths in East Tennessee highlights the need for expanded toxicology testing and updated response protocols to address the evolving opioid crisis.
The details
According to Chris Thomas, chief administrative officer and director of the Knox County Regional Forensic Center, the 19 overdose deaths under investigation occurred primarily in Knox County, with additional cases in surrounding counties. The drug was often detected alongside fentanyl and methamphetamine, though in one case it was the only substance found. Responders are cautioned that naloxone may not be effective in reversing cychlorphine overdoses, and officials advise people who use drugs not to use alone.
- The first confirmed case involving cychlorphine was on July 31, 2025, but was not initially recognized as part of a larger pattern.
- Additional cases emerged in the fall of 2025, leading investigators to identify what is now considered a developing cluster.
- As of February 13, 2026, the forensic center has confirmed 12 deaths linked to cychlorphine, with 7 more awaiting laboratory confirmation.
The players
Chris Thomas
Chief administrative officer and director of the Knox County Regional Forensic Center.
N-Propionitrile Chlorphine
An emerging synthetic opioid that is approximately 10 times more potent than fentanyl.
What they’re saying
“Always try," Thomas said, emphasizing that responders cannot immediately determine which opioid is present.”
— Chris Thomas, Chief administrative officer and director of the Knox County Regional Forensic Center (knoxtntoday.com)
“It's not picked up on normal toxicology screens. The drug requires additional testing or samples sent to research facilities for detection and quantification.”
— Chris Thomas, Chief administrative officer and director of the Knox County Regional Forensic Center (knoxtntoday.com)
What’s next
Forensic officials continue to monitor new toxicology submissions as confirmation results return from research laboratories to determine if the current cases represent a sustained distribution network or a limited supply event.
The takeaway
The emergence of highly potent synthetic opioids like cychlorphine underscores the urgent need for expanded toxicology testing, updated response protocols, and a comprehensive approach to addressing the evolving opioid crisis in East Tennessee and beyond.
