The Drug Enforcement Administration and several Marion County agencies are sounding the alarm about a growing and deadly trend: dangerous synthetic drugs being mixed with fentanyl. The DEA Indianapolis District Office joined the Marion County Coroner’s Office, IMPD, and the Marion Count y Prosecutor’s Office Monday to issue the public safety warning. Preliminary overdose data from the coroner’s office shows emerging synthetic substances are being detected in overdose deaths across the Indianapolis metro area. The warning follows a recent DEA advisory about fentanyl being mixed with substances such as xylazine, nitazenes, cychlorphine and medetomidine — drugs that can increase potency, complicate overdose response, and raise the risk of death. Medetomidine, a powerful veterinary sedative, was detected in nearly one out of every 14 confirmed drug overdose deaths in Marion County in 2026, according to coroner’s data. “Today’s illicit drug supply is more dangerous, more deceptive, and more deadly than ever before,” said DEA Indianapolis Assistant Special Agent in Charge Cody Dooley. IMPD Deputy Chief Kendale Adams said the effort targets both enforcement and prevention. “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,” Adams said. Marion County Prosecutor Ryan Mears said prosecution remains an important tool. “Every overdose death represents a life lost and a family forever changed,” Mears said. What you should know: Never take a pill not prescribed to you and dispensed by a licensed pharmacy Assume any illicit drug may contain fentanyl or other synthetic substances Carry naloxone and know how to use it Call 911 immediately if someone is experiencing a suspected overdose Officials also urged parents, guardians and educators to talk with young people about drug dangers before they head to college, concerts or festivals. ...read more read less