Last Updated: February 13, 2023

By: Rachel Clark, DanceSafe Intern

A gel capsule of white powder was sold as diclazepam (a synthetic depressant in the benzodiazepine class) in San Francisco, CA, but tested as EMB-FUBINACA and AB-FUBINACA. The sample was both sourced and submitted from San Francisco, CA.

The capsule was clear, with an overall weight of 349mg, and contained an off-white powder. According to EcstasyData.org, Marquis, Mecke, and Mandelin reagents all turned orange during the reaction (with Marquis only reacting very slightly). EMB-FUBINACA and AB-FUBINACA are both synthetic cannabinoids with limited histories of human use. Both substances have been identified as contributors to mortality in a 2019 autopsy.

AB-FUBINACA is active in very low milligram doses, with common doses falling in the 2-3mg range. The dosage of EMB-FUBINACA is unknown, due to its very limited history of use; however, most synthetic cannabinoids are active in low milligram doses. Given the 4:2 ratio of EMB-FUBINACA to AB-FUBINACA, overall milligram weight of the contents of the capsule (approximately 210mg subtracting the weight of the capsule itself), and common doses of AB-FUBINACA, it is likely that this capsule contains an extremely dangerously high dosage of AB-FUBINACA that could potentially cause very serious side effects. AB-FUBINACA has been implicated in outbreaks of dangerous intoxication in Florida and multiple hospitalizations due to unknowing consumption in Connecticut.

Diclazepam is a synthetic depressant in the benzodiazepine class with a limited history of human use. Its safety profile is poorly understood. Diclazepam’s effects profile is similar to that of diazepam (Valium); unlike diazepam, it is not prescribed, and is instead sold as a research chemical. Diclazepam is administered in very small milligram doses (less than 5mg).

We urge our community to keep in mind that drug markets are expansive and that this adulterated diclazepam capsule may appear in places other than its source and submission location. Most benzodiazepines and molecularly similar substances will not produce reliable reagent kit color changes; however, it is still critically important to test all samples as a presumptive (and not affirmative) harm reduction measure. 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!