Ohio warns of synthetic opioids and veterinary sedatives in drug supply

The Ohio Narcotics Intelligence Center (ONIC) issued two public‑safety bulletins on July 31, 2026 alerting residents that dangerous substances are appearing in the state’s drug supply. The first bulletin highlights the emergence of orphine analogs, a subgroup of new synthetic opioids (NSOs) that mimic morphine and fentanyl and pose a high risk of fatal overdose. The second bulletin warns that veterinary sedatives medetomidine and xylazine, which are not approved for human use, are increasingly found in seized samples and suspected overdose cases, complicating emergency response.

Cynthia Peterman, Deputy Chief of Staff for the Ohio Department of Public Safety, said the drug landscape is evolving with unpredictable polydrug mixtures, urging first responders and the public to call 911, administer naloxone, and stay with anyone experiencing an overdose. Governor Mike DeWine created ONIC in 2019 via an executive order; the unit operates under the Ohio Department of Public Safety with offices in Columbus, Cleveland, Toledo and Cincinnati, providing intelligence‑driven investigations and analysis to combat drug trafficking.

The bulletins advise that naloxone remains safe and effective even when multiple substances are involved, and they direct individuals to the state’s naloxone information website for further guidance.