The Kansas Bureau of Investigation is warning the public to be aware of a drug that has contributed to several accidental drug overdose deaths in the last month.

KBI spokesman Mark Malick says the drug, U-47700, is a synthetic opioid analgesic drug that is nearly eight times more potent than morphine. It causes sedation and respiratory depression, which can be harmful or fatal.

Malick says the drug can be obtained from several sources and is available in many forms.

The shipments usually come from overseas, particularly China. It is sold in vials or plastic baggies that are labeled “Not for Human Consumption” or “For Research Purposes Only.”

Malick says the KBI is working with the Kansas Board of Pharmacy and several jurisdictions to quickly make the drug illegal in Kansas.