United States Drug Enforcement Administration

INDIANAPOLIS – The Drug Enforcement Administration Indianapolis District Office joined the Marion County Coroner's Office, Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department, and Marion County Prosecutor's Office today to issue a public safety warning about the growing presence of dangerous emerging synthetic drugs being mixed with illicit fentanyl.

The warning comes as preliminary overdose data from the Marion County Coroner's Office indicates that emerging synthetic substances are being identified in overdose deaths throughout the Indianapolis metropolitan area, highlighting an increasingly dangerous and unpredictable illicit drug supply.

The announcement follows DEA's recent public safety advisory warning of fentanyl being mixed with emerging synthetic drugs such as xylazine, nitazenes, cychlorphine and medetomidine. These substances can increase the potency of illicit drugs, complicate overdose response, and significantly increase the risk of death.

“As the illicit drug supply continues to evolve, so must our response,” said DEA Indianapolis District Office Assistant Special Agent in Charge Cody Dooley. “Today's warning reflects our shared commitment to protecting our communities through strong partnerships, aggressive enforcement against drug traffickers, and public education. As families enjoy concert and festival season and students prepare to leave for or return to college, we want everyone to understand that today's illicit drug supply is more dangerous, more deceptive, and more deadly than ever before.”

According to data from the Marion County Coroner’s Office, medetomidine, a powerful veterinary sedative often mixed with synthetic opioids, was detected in nearly one out of every 14 confirmed drug overdose deaths throughout Marion County in 2026. 

“Addressing drug overdoses and drug trafficking requires a commitment to both enforcement and prevention,” said IMPD Deputy Chief Kendale Adams. “Our efforts aim not only to deter those who profit from dealing deadly narcotics in our community, but also to raise awareness about the devastating dangers of lethal drugs like fentanyl. IMPD will continue working alongside our law enforcement partners to investigate, identify, and hold accountable those who distribute these deadly substances.”

"Every overdose death represents a life lost and a family forever changed. While prosecution alone cannot solve the overdose crisis, it remains an important tool when someone's illegal drug dealing results in another person's death,” said Marion County Prosecutor Ryan Mears. “Through our partnership with IMPD, the Marion County Coroner's Office and our federal partners, we've strengthened our ability to hold drug dealers accountable and pursue justice for victims and their families."

Public Safety Guidance

• Never take a pill that was not prescribed specifically for you and dispensed by a licensed pharmacy.
• Assume any illicit drug may contain fentanyl or other dangerous synthetic substances.
• Carry naloxone and learn how to use it.
• Call 911 immediately if someone is experiencing a suspected overdose.

Parents, guardians, educators and trusted adults should have open conversations with young people about the dangers of today's illicit drug supply before they leave for college or attend concerts, festivals and other social gatherings.

“Every overdose and poisoning prevented is a life saved,” Dooley said. “By working together and ensuring the public understands these evolving threats, we can help protect our communities and save lives.”