Dr Lingueglia said it was "really surprising" that black mamba venom would contain such a powerful painkiller.

BBC: Black mamba venom is 'better painkiller' than morphine

Crime Prevention Minister Jeremy Browne says black mamba and methoxetamine, often known as mexxy, will be banned.

BBC: "Legal highs" mexxy and black mamba banned by government

The post was signed "Mamba Out, " referring to Bryant's Black Mamba nickname, after the venomous snake, for his ability to strike suddenly on the court.

WSJ: Kobe Bryant's Season Likely Over With Injury

Several years ago Bryant was said to be a part investor in boutique Swiss brand Nubeo, which designed (but never commercially released) a Nubeo Black Mamba watch.

FORBES: Kobe Bryant's New Swiss Watch Brand Endorsement

And in March, Tory MP Nadhim Zahawi said Warwickshire Police had warned him of black mamba's "life-threatening effects" after a 13-year-old child in his Stratford on Avon constituency took the drug.

BBC: "Legal highs" mexxy and black mamba banned by government