A lot of people ask, what is Flubromazolam? Recently, there has been a surge in sales of non-FDA-approved substances as an alternative to prescription medications. These unregulated substances, frequently found online, bypass all forms of quality control and are available to the public. One of the more recent drugs that has sparked concern is Flubromazolam. Due to the lack of legal supervision and control, drugs such as Flubromazolam are very dangerous and should be avoided. If you or a loved one has begun using this substance, it is important to know what side effects you can anticipate, and be able to identify signs of withdrawal.
What is Flubromazolam?
Flubromazolam is a triazolobenzodiazepine, a benzodiazepine analog that shares characteristics of the commonly prescribed benzo. One unique element of this “designer” benzo is its potency. According to a study conducted by Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Flubromazolam has produced life-threatening side effects in individuals with as little as 3 mg ingested.
Traditional benzos, such as Xanax or Klonopin, are typically prescribed to treat anxiety disorders and insomnia. These substances interact with the brain’s GABA neurotransmitters and generate a sense of calm and sedation. Benzo derivatives, such as Flubromazolam, produce the same effects while avoiding all legal and manufacturing regulations, allowing these substances to be easily tampered with and abused without scrutiny. Most purchases of this substance occur online, with the benzo derivative conveniently arriving at the doorstep.
Designer Benzos (DBZDs) like Flubromazolam are frequently mentioned in scientific or patent literature as drugs that were studied by pharmaceutical companies but never developed and are not authorized for medical use anywhere in the world. DBZDs are non-FDA-approved drugs that retain large portions of their primary structure as FDA-approved benzodiazepines, but are altered from this structure by addition and/or deletion of functional groups. Some DBZDs are created by combining different FDA-approved benzodiazepines. They may also be metabolites of FDA-approved benzos or of compounds transformed into FDA-approved benzos.
The Dangers of Benzos
A large proportion of non-FDA-approved benzodiazepines are sold on the dark web (also known as the deep web or dark net). These substances are not indexed on the regular internet and must be accessed using specialized browsers. In addition to these sites, illicit dealers also sell research chemicals and legal alternatives on these sites. Although data on the clinical effects and pharmacology of DBZDs are limited, these substances pose a risk to the health of users.
“Benzos” sold on the black market are often non FDA-approved Xanax knockoffs. In addition to alprazolam, Flubromazolam and etizolam have been found in fake Xanax tablets instead of alprazolam. As these substances have unknown medical effects, unwary patients can be put at risk by their purchase.
In addition, many of the non-FDA-approved benzo cases were in conjunction with other commonly abused drugs, such as opioids. Drug dependence, combined with the ease of obtaining non-FDA-approved designer benzos on the internet, create the perfect storm for abuse.
Based on the limited information surrounding designer benzodiazepines, Flubromazolam is thought to be a very addictive and risky analog that produces many, possibly severe, side effects. The drug is said to be highly effective and long-lasting in nature. Memory loss and loss of control are common adverse effects, and withdrawals are reportedly severe for many consumers.
In 2015, Flubromazolam was classified as a narcotic substance in Sweden and Switzerland. The United Kingdom followed suit and introduced the Psychoactive Substances Act in 2016, banning production, distribution, and consumption of Flubromazolam. Despite being a banned substance in many parts of the world, Flubromazolam remains a legal grey area. Several online vendors still sell the drug worldwide, with a quick Google search of “buy Flubromazolam” showing multiple results.
Side Effects of Flubromazolam
The side effects of this research drug are very similar to traditional benzodiazepines, with Flubromazolam being considered more potent. As a sedative, Flubromazolam affects the respiratory and central nervous systems, and can cause dangerous reactions. The following are side effects of Flubromazolam use:
- Confusion
- Lethargy
- Muscle weakness
- Lack of balance
- Cognitive impairment
- Memory loss
- Amnesia
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Visual distortions
Flubromazolam Withdrawal Side Effects
Because this drug is classified as a benzodiazepine derivative, the side effects of withdrawal are very similar to the effects of benzo withdrawal; however, Flubromazolam withdrawal has actually been described as a longer and more painful withdrawal in comparison. Considered one of the most dangerous drug types to withdraw from, benzos can cause life-threatening side effects, such as seizures, when use is abruptly stopped.
Withdrawing from benzos, including Flubromazolam, can be painful. There is also a high likelihood of relapse associated with these drugs. Therefore, it is important to seek professional help when attempting to detox from this substance. Side effects of withdrawal from Flubromazolam include:
- Chills
- Body and muscle aches
- Anxiety
- Panic Attacks
- Vomiting
- Distortions in perception
- Seizures
Asheville Recovery Center is Here to Help
Flubromazolam is a dangerous, highly addictive, and unregulated benzo derivative. Therefore, it is extremely important to seek help immediately if you or a loved one is struggling with this addiction. The founders of Asheville Recovery Center, as well as many of our addiction therapists, have struggled with addiction and now enjoy life in recovery. They understand the struggles of addiction and how difficult it is to overcome alone. Our addiction specialists are experts in their field and will be there to support you every step of the way.
Our treatment specialists at Asheville Recovery Center have developed a unique, hybrid model of treatment which combines a traditional 12-step program with holistic rehabilitation. A multitude of services, programs, and therapies are offered, including:
- Partial Hospitalization Program
- Residential-style Treatment
- Intensive Outpatient Rehabilitation
- Detox Referral
- Aftercare Planning
You do not have to struggle with addiction alone. If you feel that you or a loved one is struggling with Flubromazolam abuse or addiction, our specialists are on standby and ready to help. Call (828)518-6996 and speak with an addiction expert today so you can take the first step towards a rewarding life of sobriety.
