Source: Drug and Alcohol Dependence (Journal)
ToxIC Project Data Source: Drug Overdose Toxico-Surveillance (DOTS) Reporting Program
Publication Date: July 2025
Authors: Alyssa M. Falise, Amanda Sutphin, Rachel Culbreth, Kim Aldy, Keith Burkhart, Jeffrey Brent, Sharan L. Campleman, Hannah Day, Aprielle Wills, Alex Krotulski, Paul Wax, On Behalf of the ToxIC DOTS Study Group
Keywords/Topics: bromazolam, fentanyl, opioids, overdose, stimulants, toxico-surveillance

Drug and Alcohol Dependence: "Detected substances among patients with confirmed bromazolam exposure who present to the emergency department following a suspected opioid and/or stimulant-related non-fatal overdose"

A study from the ToxIC Drug Overdose Toxico-Surveillance (DOTS) Program investigated the presence and context of bromazolam, an emerging illicit benzodiazepine, among 341 patients treated for non-fatal opioid or stimulant overdoses at 17 U.S. emergency departments. Bromazolam was found in about 8% of patients treated for overdose. Those who had bromazolam in their system also had higher levels of fentanyl in their blood compared to others, even though both groups tested positive for fentanyl at similar rates.

Among bromazolam-positive patients who reported using only one substance, none intentionally used bromazolam. Fentanyl (35%) and heroin (30%) were the most commonly reported intended drugs, and snorting was the most frequent method of use (55%).

The findings indicate that bromazolam is often unknowingly consumed alongside opioids, potentially increasing overdose severity. As its presence grows in the illicit drug supply, understanding the clinical impact of bromazolam exposure is critical. Further research is needed to explore its health effects, interactions with opioids like fentanyl, and implications for overdose response and harm reduction strategies. Read more...