Last Updated: February 13, 2023

By: Rachel Clark, DanceSafe Intern

A rectangular green pressed bar was sold as Alprazolam (Xanax) in North Carolina, but tested as Flualprazolam. The sample was sourced from online (Florida) and submitted from North Carolina.  

The sample is in the form of a green, rectangular “bar”-shaped pill with two score lines and “S | 90” on the score side (no markings on the back). According to EcstasyData.org, Marquis, Mecke, and Mandelin reagents did not react with the sample, a response that is typical of benzodiazepines.

Flualprazolam is a research chemical that consists of fluorinated Alprazolam. Very little is understood about its mechanism of action, as there is virtually no documented history of human consumption; however, the dosage of Flualprazolam is approximately half of that of Alprazolam, as it is known to be a more powerful benzodiazepine than Alprazolam. Additionally, Flualprazolam is known to have a duration of action that can be approximately double that of Alprazolam. Both the potency and length of action of Flualprazolam should be taken into consideration when deciding whether to consume it.

Benzodiazepines are capable of producing both addiction and dependence in users, even when used as prescribed by a physician. This class of substances produces marked depression (slowing/dampening) of the central nervous system, similarly to alcohol – combining benzodiazepines and substances such as opioids or other depressants (alcohol, DXM, etc.) can lead to potentially very dangerous or fatal slowing of breathing and heart rate. Additionally, combining or overindulging in benzodiazepines can induce loss of consciousness, blackouts, and vomiting. Flualprazolam is approximately twice as potent as Alprazolam, which poses the potential for experiencing negative/unwanted side effects if consumed in excess.

We urge our community to keep in mind that drug markets are expansive and that this adulterated Alprazolam pill may appear in places other than its source and submission location. Benzodiazepines do not have consistent or reliable testing results with reagent kits, and utilizing fentanyl test strips prior to ingesting benzodiazepines purchased from any source other than a pharmacist is critically important. Using a reagent test kit can help provide a first line of defense as a presumptive (and not affirmative) process. Additionally, samples may be sent in to www.ecstasydata.org for in-depth laboratory testing. Test before you ingest to avoid taking misrepresented substances, and so you can adjust your intention, set, and setting appropriately to minimize risks. You can purchase your DanceSafe test kit here.

The purpose of #TestIt Alerts is to alert the public to misrepresented substances circulating in their region. We neither condemn nor condone drug use, but rather want people to be aware of what they are ingesting so they can take steps to minimize risks.

Since 1998, DanceSafe has been keeping the electronic music and nightlife communities safe. As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, we provide free harm reduction services at music festivals and nightlife events across the nation. All proceeds from the sales of our drug checking kits go back into the organization so we can continue to provide our services to our communities for free. By purchasing a kit, you are not only helping keep you and your friends safe, you are also contributing to the harm reduction movement. Thank you for your support!