Teen drug trend: Etizolam
Recently, some states are reporting cases of drug abuse of a dangerous new sedative by teens: etizolam. Legal in most states, the drug is rising in popularity among teens. It’s not detected in drug tests but can be dangerous and deadly.
Etizolam is a lot like Valium or Xanax. It is in a group of drugs called research chemicals, which are legal to take. Federal authorities say this drug is trending on the street, and they are seeing it being shipped into this country more frequently.
A quick Google search of etizolam will turn up a plethora of pills for sale.
The danger of etizolam is linked to respiratory failure, heart failure, and seizures. Etizolam also is being used as a date-rape drug because it lowers inhibitions and creates an amnesia-like affect.
Chicago.cbslocal.com published an article about the dangers of etizolam and reported a story about a teenager who had a seizure from taking etizolam. They said, “A Chicago area mom, who does not want her name used, wants to expose this drug she says she found her son using and hiding inside of a book cut in the middle to conceal the drugs.
‘I’m worried because it’s so easy to get,’ the mother says. ‘He ordered 10 boxes online.’ The danger is real says the mom, whose son is now in rehab.
‘He had a seizure,’ she said. ‘It was almost 10 minutes long.’”
Georgia has also seen the rise in popularity of etizolam among teens there. Wsbtv.com reports that, “GBI confirms it’s seen several cases of a dangerous new sedative drug here in Georgia. The drug is rising in popularity among teenagers, and is still legal in Georgia.
‘This is a drug that one could easily overdose on, and it is getting sold freely over the Internet,’ said Dr. Ford Vox, who works at the Shepherd Center. ‘In particular with alcohol, it can sedate someone to the extent that they can pass out unconscious. Slow respirations, even vomit, and not awaken from the vomit,’ Vox said.”
As always, it’s important for parents to be vigilant in knowing what their teens are up to. Being aware of new trend in teen drug abuse can help prevent dangerous situations. Hopefully, more states will be proactive about banning etizolam and making it illegal to use.
Sources:
Chicago.cbslocal.com
Wsbtv.com