DEA Emergency Schedules Bromazolam
WASHINGTON – Following an increase in the trafficking and abuse of novel psychoactive substances (NPS) throughout the United States, the Drug Enforcement Administration has emergency scheduled bromazolam, a synthetic benzodiazepine used to make counterfeit Xanax tablets.
The emergency scheduling of bromazolam places it into Schedule I under the Controlled Substances Act, recognizing there is no current accepted medical use and a high potential for abuse. By imposing regulatory controls, bromazolam is now subject to administrative, civil, and criminal sanctions applicable to Schedule I controlled substances for those who manufacture, distribute, reverse distribute, import, export, engage in research, conduct instructional activities or chemical analysis, possess, or propose to handle bromazolam.
“The emergency scheduling of bromazolam is a decisive step to get ahead of a rapidly evolving threat. We will not wait for more lives to be put at risk,” said DEA Assistant Administrator Cheri Oz, Diversion Control Division. “This action closes dangerous gaps, disrupts access, and gives law enforcement and public health partners the tools they need to respond. Protecting our communities from emerging drugs is a top priority, and we will continue to act swiftly to stay ahead of those who seek to exploit them.”
The identification of bromazolam in the illicit drug market has been widely reported in the United States and is currently one of the most identified benzodiazepines in illicit drug seizures tested by DEA laboratory systems.
Adverse health effects include slurred speech, loss of control of bodily movements (ataxia), altered mental state, and respiratory depression associated with the abuse of drugs known collectively as “designer benzodiazepines.” The increase in the co-abuse of opioids with designer benzodiazepines has become of particular concern as opioid misuse continues in the United States.
More information is available in the temporary scheduling order.
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