In Central Illinois, two rare “street” Benzos (benzodiazepines) have caused worry about additional overdoses to contend with in addition to the opioid epidemic the region has been seeing. Since last October, Undersheriff Rick Robbins told the media, he has encountered a drug called flubromazolam, known to its users as “liquid Xanax.” Another drug, named etizolam, several times.

The chemicals found in both of these synthetic drugs are similar to what is found in their prescribed counterparts, such as Xanax or Valium. But Flubromazolam and etizolam are much more potent than the benzo dosages prescribed by doctors. Like many drugs, they are imported from overseas, from pharmaceutical manufacturers that have access to the initial drug formulation.

Robbins said the drugs were probably purchased online and then sold by a local dealer. He notes that teenagers are often attracted to synthetic drugs because they are not yet illegal in Illinois. Flubromazolam also was found recently at an overdose death, alongside with other drugs. Another user reportedly ended up in the hospital due to hallucinations. These were the first instances of the drug entering Illinois.

Both of these street Benzos can be fatal when mixed with other drugs, especially opioids or alcohol.

More About Flubromazolam

Flubromazolam works similar to the benzodiazepine class which produces relaxation and euphoria. However, this drug is incredibly potent and lasts about 18 hours. Overdose is a danger for anyone who uses alcohol or other drugs with Flubromazolam. This drug has a reputation for causing users to hallucinate and blackout – causing them to be a danger to themselves and others.

Like many benzodiazepines, this drug is highly addictive, and the body quickly becomes dependent on it. Sudden cessation can cause seizures and even death for somebody who has been using Flubromazolam regularly.

Flubromazolam has been classified as an illegal substance in Sweden, the UK, and Switzerland. In the UK, flubromazolam has been classified as a Class C alongside other designer drugs. Arkansas is the only US state that has listed etizolam as a Schedule I drug under their drug scheduling guidelines

More About Etizolam

According to the DEA, Etizolam was introduced in 1983 in Japan as a treatment for neurological disorders and mental health such as anxiety. While not approved for use in the US or Canada, many other countries use this drug in a similar way to Xanax. It comes in .25, 0.5 mg and 1.0 mg tablets.

Etizolam usually comes in inconspicuous pill form. However, some drug dealers have marketed in in different ways. For example, when police in Indiana seized etizolam last fall, they ended up taking SweeTarts candies and sugar cubes that had been laced with the drug.

Etizolam is considered to be addictive and has no medical use in the United States. However, it has not explicitly been outlawed as a controlled substance. Like many benzodiazepines, this drug can be addictive. Suddenly quitting it or other Benzos can cause the user to risk seizures or even death. Using it alongside an opioid or alcohol can also risk accidental overdose.

If you or somebody you love is using Benzos or other drugs, there is help available. Addiction is a powerful disease, but you can overcome it with the help of understanding, compassionate professionals. Please call one of the listed locations today to find out more about your options.