Montgomery, Ala. (WDNews) — The U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration has officially classified bromazolam, often referred to as “Designer Xanax,” as a Schedule I controlled substance, following a push from a coalition of state attorneys general that included Steve Marshall.
According to the Alabama Attorney General’s Office, the classification places bromazolam in the same category as drugs like heroin and LSD under the Controlled Substances Act, allowing law enforcement agencies nationwide to take stronger action against its distribution and use.
Officials said the move comes after growing concerns about the drug’s potency and its increasing presence in communities. Last year, Marshall joined 21 attorneys general in calling on federal officials to take emergency action to ban the substance.
“The DEA’s decisive action arms law enforcement officers across the state with the critical tools and authority they need to stand firmly against the growing threat of dangerous and unpredictable substances like bromazolam,” Marshall said. “As evidenced by our successful litigation holding opioid manufacturers accountable, we are committed to protecting our communities. With the recent news, Alabama is better equipped than ever to do so.”
Authorities say bromazolam poses serious risks due to how difficult it can be to detect and treat overdoses. Unlike opioid-related overdoses, officials warn that naloxone, commonly known as Narcan, is not effective against bromazolam, increasing the likelihood of fatal outcomes.
State and federal officials continue to urge the public to remain aware of emerging synthetic drugs and the dangers they present, as enforcement efforts expand under the new classification.
