Florida Attorney General Ashley Moody is warning Floridians about a rise in deaths nationwide from Bromazolam, a potent benzodiazepine. According to a statement from Moody, the drug is gaining popularity throughout the country and is reportedly being mixed with illicit fentanyl. Benzodiazepines are depressant drugs that produce sedation and feelings of relaxation. According to the Center for Forensic Science Research and Education, bromazolam went from being present in only 1% of toxicology cases submitted to the National Medical Services Labs in 2021 to 13% in mid-2022. Side effects of bromazolam include loss of coordination, drowsiness, dizziness, respiratory depression, coma and death.
“It is imperative that Floridians understand how dangerous bromazolam is on its own,” Moody said. “It is also reportedly mixed with fentanyl, leading to adverse health conditions, overdoses and even deaths—including here in Florida. Please, never use an illicit substance. Just one pill can kill.”