Last Updated: February 13, 2023

By: Rachel Clark, DanceSafe Intern

A clear capsule of white powder was sold in the Bay Area, CA as a benzodiazepine but actually contained two different unidentified chemicals. The sample was sourced in Los Angeles, CA and submitted from the Bay Area, CA. 

The sample did not react with Marquis, Mecke, or Mandelin reagents.  

Unidentified chemicals in samples are substances that are not currently listed in advanced testing databases. These chemicals could be anything, either psychoactive or nonpsychoactive. Because of this, it is impossible to know whether the unidentified chemical contained in this sample is toxic or dangerous. 

It is important to note that benzodiazepines cannot be identified by traditional reagent testing kits sold by DanceSafe. While certain reagents exist that are capable of identifying the presence of benzodiazepines (such as the Zimmermann reagent), DanceSafe and comparable test kits should only be used as presumptive, and not affirmative, methods of drug checking. In other words, they can be used to determine whether a substance is largely adulterated with something other than a benzodiazepine that can be tested for by a 5-panel or 8-panel reagent test kit. 

It is also very important to consider using fentanyl test strips when testing benzodiazepines, as opioids are commonly used adulterants due to their comparable sedating effects. 

We urge our community to keep in mind that drug markets are expansive and that this adulterated benzodiazepine pill may appear in places other than its source and submission location. 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!