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{{Headerpanel|{{DepressantOD|benzodiazepines}}}}
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{{headerpanel|{{DepressantOD|benzodiazepines}}}}
{{Distinguish|Flubromazolam}}
{{SummarySheet}}
{{SummarySheet}}
{{SubstanceBox/Example}}
{{SubstanceBox/Bromazolam}}
''Bromazolam''' (also known as '''Brom''' or '''Bromaz''') is a [[psychoactive class::depressant]] substance of the [[Chemical class::benzodiazepine]] class. Its characteristic effects include [[anxiety suppression]], [[sedation]], [[disinhibition]], and [[muscle relaxation]]. It is currently unscheduled in most parts of the world, and hence it is commonly sold as a research chemical.
'''Bromazolam''' (also known as '''Brom''', '''Bromaz''', or '''XLI-268''') is a novel [[psychoactive class::depressant]] belonging to the [[chemical class::benzodiazepine]] class. It exhibits [[anxiolytic]], [[disinhibition]], [[sedative]], [[muscle relaxant]], and [[memory suppression]] effects when administered. Bromazolam is not currently scheduled in many regions globally and is frequently distributed online as a [[research chemical]]. Structurally, it is the bromine-substituted analogue of [[alprazolam]] and has similar pharmacokinetic properties and subjective effects.
Like other [[benzodiazepines]], bromazolam binds to specific sites on the [[gamma-amino-butyric acid|GABA<sub>A</sub>]] receptor.<ref>https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4303399/</ref> Since it is not available by prescription and is sold online on clearnet and darknet vendors - it is commonly used to self-medicate or for recreational purposes
Like other [[benzodiazepines]], Bromazolam binds to specific sites on the [[GABA<sub>A</sub> receptor]] in the brain, amplifying the inhibitory effects of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA).<ref>https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4303399/</ref> Its availability on the [[clearnet]] and [[darknet]] has increased its use for self-medication and recreational purposes due to its potent effects.
The [[Benzodiazepine#Discontinuation|sudden discontinuation of benzodiazepines]] can be potentially dangerous or life-threatening for individuals using regularly for extended periods of time, sometimes resulting in seizures or death.<ref>A fatal case of benzodiazepine withdrawal. (PubMed.gov / NCBI) | http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19465812</ref> It is highly recommended to [[taper]] one's dose by gradually lowering the amount taken each day for a prolonged period of time instead of stopping abruptly.<ref>Canadian Guideline for Safe and Effective Use of Opioids for Chronic Non-Cancer Pain - Appendix B-6: Benzodiazepine Tapering | http://nationalpaincentre.mcmaster.ca/opioid/cgop_b_app_b06.html</ref>
It is important to note that the pharmacological properties stated are assumed based on its structure and user reports, as no extensive formal research has been conducted.
<!-- Please ensure that any new substance articles are first published in the 'Talk' namespace. For example, a new article on substance XYZ should have the title "Talk: XYZ" instead of "XYZ". Once the submitted article has been reviewed and determined to meet the guidelines and standards, it will be published by a staff member. -->
The [[benzodiazepine#Discontinuation|sudden discontinuation of benzodiazepines]] after prolonged use can lead to severe withdrawal symptoms, including seizures or death.<ref>A fatal case of benzodiazepine withdrawal. (PubMed.gov / NCBI) | http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19465812</ref> Users are strongly advised to [[taper]] their dosage gradually rather than stopping abruptly.<ref>Canadian Guideline for Safe and Effective Use of Opioids for Chronic Non-Cancer Pain - Appendix B-6: Benzodiazepine Tapering | http://nationalpaincentre.mcmaster.ca/opioid/cgop_b_app_b06.html</ref>
For tips on how to properly format a substance article, please refer to this document: [[Content Style Guide - Substance]]
==History and Culture==
[[Bromazolam]] (XLI-268) is a [[triazolobenzodiazepine]] (TBZD) first synthesized in 1976 by Hoffman-La Roche. Although initially developed as a potential medication, it was never approved for use and remained unmarketed.<ref>Manchester KR, Lomas EC, Waters L, Dempsey FC, Maskell PD (January 2018). "The emergence of new psychoactive substance (NPS) benzodiazepines: A review". Drug Testing and Analysis. 10 (1): 37–53. doi:10.1002/dta.2211. <nowiki>PMID 28471096</nowiki>. </ref> Bromazolam was first identified in Sweden in 2016 by the EMCDDA and has since been found in nine countries, including Australia, Austria, China, Finland, Germany, India, Sweden, the UK, and the USA.
==History and culture==
In European markets, Bromazolam is often sold as blue Diazepam pills,<ref>https://www.wedinos.org/sample-results</ref> while in the United States, it is more commonly sold as Alprazolam.
{{historyStub}}
==Chemistry==
==Chemistry==
{{chemistry}}
[[File:Alprazolam vs bromazolam.jpg|alt=Comparison between the molecular structures of alprazolam and bromazolam|thumb|323x323px|Chemical structural comparison of Alprazolam and Bromazolam by Kevin G. Shanks (2023).]]
Bromazolam is a chemical analog of [[alprazolam]], where the chlorine atom in alprazolam is replaced by a bromine atom.
==Pharmacology==
==Pharmacology==
{{pharmacology}}
Bromazolam is a triazolobenzodiazepine (TBZD) and was synthesized in 1976, though it was not brought to market.<ref>Manchester KR, Lomas EC, Waters L, Dempsey FC, Maskell PD (January 2018). "The emergence of new psychoactive substance (NPS) benzodiazepines: A review". Drug Testing and Analysis. 10 (1): 37–53. doi:10.1002/dta.2211. <nowiki>PMID 28471096</nowiki>. </ref> It acts as a non-subtype selective agonist at the benzodiazepine (BZD) site of [[GABA<sub>A</sub> receptors]], with a binding affinity of 2.81nM at the α1 subtype, 0.69nM at α2, and 0.62nM at α5.<ref>Benzodiazepine interactions with GABA receptors (PubMed.gov / NCBI) | http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/6147796</ref> Benzodiazepines enhance the efficiency of GABA neurotransmission, producing sedating and anxiolytic effects<ref>http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/2450203</ref>.
The GABA<sub>A</sub> receptor consists of five subunits out of a possible 19, leading to a wide variety of receptor subtypes with different properties and interactions with benzodiazepines. Triazolobenzodiazepines like Bromazolam may also possess antidepressant properties, potentially due to their chemical similarity to tricyclic antidepressants.<ref>Barbee JG (October 1993). "Memory, benzodiazepines, and anxiety: integration of theoretical and clinical perspectives". ''The Journal of Clinical Psychiatry''. 54 Suppl (Suppl): 86–97, discussion 98–101. <nowiki>PMID 8262893</nowiki>.</ref>
==Half Life==
4-8 hours with after effects being reported into the next 12 hours. In some cases people have reported feeling anxiolytic effects well into the 24+ hour mark and withdrawals/rebound anxiety not starting until Day 4/5.
==Subjective effects==
==Subjective Effects==
{{EffectStub}}
{{EffectStub}}
Bromazolam's subjective effects include sedation, relaxation, anxiety suppression, and decreased inhibition.
{{Preamble/SubjectiveEffects}}
{{Preamble/SubjectiveEffects}}
{{effects/base
{{effects/base
|{{effects/physical|
|{{effects/physical|
If applicable, a brief paragraph summary of the substance's physical effects may be included here.
Physical effects of Bromazolam are generally marked by intense sedation, sleepiness, and muscle relaxation.
You may select physical effects to add below [[Subjective effect index#Physical effects|here]].
*'''[[Effect::Physical effect]]'''
* '''[[Effect::Sedation]]''' – Can lead to profound drowsiness, including sudden onset of extreme fatigue and "nodding off."
*'''[[Effect::Physical effect2]]'''
* '''[[Effect::Perception of bodily heaviness]]''' – Often accompanies moderate to high doses, leading to a lethargic state where movement is difficult.
*'''[[Effect::Physical effect3]]'''
* '''[[Effect::Appetite enhancement]]''' – Reported to stimulate hunger in a manner akin to alcohol.
* '''[[Effect::Muscle relaxation]]''' – Effects are more pronounced than with [[alcohol]].
* '''[[Effect::Motor control loss]]''' – Causes stumbling, clumsiness, and escalated injury risks at higher doses.
* '''[[Effect::Respiratory depression]]''' – Potent at higher doses, it can be fatal when combined with other depressants.
* '''[[Effect::Dizziness]]''' – Common, especially at high doses.
* '''[[Effect::Seizure suppression]]''' – May provide anti-convulsant effects like other benzodiazepines.
}}
}}
{{effects/visual|
{{effects/visual|
If applicable, a brief paragraph summary of the substance's visual effects may be included here.
Bromazolam can suppress visual acuity, resulting in blurred vision, especially at higher doses.
You may select visual effects to add below [[Subjective effect index#Visual effects|here]].
====Enhancements====
*'''[[Effect::Visual acuity effect1]]'''
====Distortions====
*'''[[Effect::Visual distortion effect1]]'''
====[[Effect::Geometry]]====
* '''[[Effect::Visual acuity suppression]]'''
If applicable, a brief paragraph summary describing the visual geometry produced by the substance may be included here.
* '''[[Effect::Blurred vision]]'''
====Hallucinatory states====
* '''[[Effect::Double vision]]
If applicable, a brief summary of the substance's visual effects profile may be written here.
*'''[[Effect::Hallucinatory states1]]'''
}}
}}
|{{effects/cognitive|
|{{effects/cognitive|
If applicable, a brief paragraph summary of the substance's cognitive effects may be included here.
Bromazolam primarily impacts cognitive functions such as memory, emotion, and judgment.
You may select from a list of cognitive effects to add below [[Subjective effect index#Cognitive effects|here]].
* '''[[Effect::Analysis suppression]]'''
* '''[[Effect::Anxiety suppression]]'''
* '''[[Effect::Compulsive redosing]]''' – Disinhibition combined with memory suppression may lead to frequent and uncontrolled redosing, increasing overdose risk.
* '''[[Effect::Confusion]]'''
* '''[[Effect::Delusions|Delusions of sobriety]]'''
* '''[[Effect::Disinhibition]]'''
* '''[[Effect::Dream suppression]]'''
* '''[[Effect::Emotion suppression]]'''
* '''[[Effect::Euphoria]]'''
* '''[[Effect::Language suppression]]'''
* '''[[Effect::Memory suppression]]'''
* ** '''[[Effect::Amnesia]]''' – Particularly at high doses, Bromazolam can cause blackouts, making users forget periods while under its influence.
* '''[[Effect::Motivation suppression]]'''
* '''[[Effect::Sleepiness]]'''
* '''[[Effect::Thought deceleration]]'''
*'''[[Effect::Cognitive effect1]]'''
}}
*'''[[Effect::Cognitive effect2]]'''
{{effects/aftereffects|
*'''[[Effect::Cognitive effect3]]'''
* '''Rebound [[Effect::Anxiety]]'''
* '''[[Effect::Dream potentiation]]''' <ref>Goyal, Sarita. "Drugs and Dreams." Indian Journal of Clinical Practice (n.d.): n. pag. Web. | http://medind.nic.in/iaa/t13/i3/iaat13i3p624.pdf</ref>
* '''Residual [[Effect::Sleepiness]]'''
* '''[[Effect::Thought deceleration]]'''
* '''[[Effect::Thought disorganization]]'''
* '''[[Effect::Irritability]]'''
}}
}}}}
{{effects/auditory|
If applicable, a brief paragraph summary of the substance's auditory effects may be included here.
You may select from a list of auditory effects to add below [[Subjective effect index#Auditory effects|here]].
===Experience Reports===
There are currently {{#ask:[[Category:Bromazolam]][[Category:Experience]] | format=count}} experience reports available in our [[experience index]].
*'''[[Effect::Auditory effect1]]'''
Additional experience reports for Bromazolam can be found here:
Research on the toxicity of Bromazolam has not been done, however there large amounts of overdoses have been reported in relation to Bromazolam. It is strongly recommended to employ [[responsible use|harm reduction practices]] while using this or any substance.
*'''[[Effect::Multisensory effect1]]'''
===Tolerance and Addiction Potential===
*'''[[Effect::Multisensory effect2]]'''
Long-term use of Bromazolam can lead to tolerance, physical dependence, and withdrawal symptoms associated with benzodiazepines, including the potential for life-threatening withdrawal seizures. Notably, tolerance to Bromazolam builds more quickly than with other benzodiazepines, increasing the risk of dependence.
}}
===Dangerous Interactions===
{{effects/transpersonal|
Like other benzodiazepines, Bromazolam should not be mixed with alcohol or other central nervous system depressants due to the high risk of fatal overdose caused by respiratory depression.
If applicable, a brief paragraph summary of the substance's transpersonal effects may be included here.
You may select from a list of transpersonal effects to add below [[Subjective effect index#Transpersonal effects|here]].
{{DangerousInteractions}}
{{DangerousInteractions/Intro}}
*'''[[Effect::Transpersonal effect1]]'''
{{DangerousInteractions/Depressants}}
*'''[[Effect::Transpersonal effect2]]'''
}}
==Legal Status==
}}
[[Bromazolam]] is currently unscheduled in many countries, though some states and nations have specific controls:
===Experience reports===
There are currently {{#ask:[[Category:SUBSTANCE]][[Category:Experience]] | format=count}} experience reports which describe the effects of this substance in our [[experience index]].
* [https://www.erowid.org/experiences/subs/exp_SUBSTANCE.shtml Erowid Experience Vaults: SUBSTANCE] <!-- Check the link to see if it exists -->
==Toxicity and harm potential==
- **United Kingdom:** Classified as a Class C controlled substance.<ref>https://publichealthscotland.scot/publications/rapid-action-drug-alerts-and-response-radar-alerts/radar-bromazolam-alert-2023/legal-status/#:~:text=In%20the%20UK%2C%20many%20benzodiazepines,be%20due%20to%20international%20control.</ref>
{{toxicity}}
- **United States:** Federally unscheduled, though state-level regulations like in Virginia have placed Bromazolam into Schedule I.<ref>https://web.archive.org/web/20230323012949/https://law.lis.virginia.gov/vacode/title54.1/chapter34/section54.1-3446/</ref>.
It is strongly recommended that one use [[responsible use|harm reduction practices]] when using this substance.
- **Canada:** Classified as a Schedule IV controlled substance.
===Lethal dosage===
- **Germany:** Subject to national control legislation.
*[https://cdn.who.int/media/docs/default-source/46th-ecdd/bromazolam_46th-ecdd-critical-review_public-version.pdf?sfvrsn=4f1bccfa_1 WHO Critical Report October 2023]
==Literature==
==Literature==
* APA formatted reference
Please see the [[citation formatting guide]] if you need assistance properly formatting citations.
*APA formatted references
Refer to the [[citation formatting guide]] for help in properly formatting citations.
This article is currently in the 'Talk' namespace as an unfinished draft. This section is used to host drafts for unpublished articles and discussions of published ones. If you wish to discuss or suggest improvements to this draft, please do so in the 'Discussion' section at the bottom of the page. This notice will be removed once the draft has been approved for publication by an administrator.
It may contain incorrect information, particularly with respect to dosage, duration, subjective effects, toxicity and other risks. It may also not meet PW style and grammar standards.
WARNING: Always start with lower doses due to differences between individual body weight, tolerance, metabolism, and personal sensitivity. See responsible use section.
DISCLAIMER: PW's dosage information is gathered from users and resources for educational purposes only. It is not a recommendation and should be verified with other sources for accuracy.
Bromazolam (also known as Brom, Bromaz, or XLI-268) is a novel depressant belonging to the benzodiazepine class. It exhibits anxiolytic, disinhibition, sedative, muscle relaxant, and memory suppression effects when administered. Bromazolam is not currently scheduled in many regions globally and is frequently distributed online as a research chemical. Structurally, it is the bromine-substituted analogue of alprazolam and has similar pharmacokinetic properties and subjective effects.
Like other benzodiazepines, Bromazolam binds to specific sites on the [[GABAA receptor]] in the brain, amplifying the inhibitory effects of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA).[3] Its availability on the clearnet and darknet has increased its use for self-medication and recreational purposes due to its potent effects.
It is important to note that the pharmacological properties stated are assumed based on its structure and user reports, as no extensive formal research has been conducted.
The sudden discontinuation of benzodiazepines after prolonged use can lead to severe withdrawal symptoms, including seizures or death.[4] Users are strongly advised to taper their dosage gradually rather than stopping abruptly.[5]
Bromazolam (XLI-268) is a triazolobenzodiazepine (TBZD) first synthesized in 1976 by Hoffman-La Roche. Although initially developed as a potential medication, it was never approved for use and remained unmarketed.[6] Bromazolam was first identified in Sweden in 2016 by the EMCDDA and has since been found in nine countries, including Australia, Austria, China, Finland, Germany, India, Sweden, the UK, and the USA.
In European markets, Bromazolam is often sold as blue Diazepam pills,[7] while in the United States, it is more commonly sold as Alprazolam.
Chemistry
Chemical structural comparison of Alprazolam and Bromazolam by Kevin G. Shanks (2023).
Bromazolam is a chemical analog of alprazolam, where the chlorine atom in alprazolam is replaced by a bromine atom.
Pharmacology
Bromazolam is a triazolobenzodiazepine (TBZD) and was synthesized in 1976, though it was not brought to market.[8] It acts as a non-subtype selective agonist at the benzodiazepine (BZD) site of [[GABAA receptors]], with a binding affinity of 2.81nM at the α1 subtype, 0.69nM at α2, and 0.62nM at α5.[9] Benzodiazepines enhance the efficiency of GABA neurotransmission, producing sedating and anxiolytic effects[10].
The GABAA receptor consists of five subunits out of a possible 19, leading to a wide variety of receptor subtypes with different properties and interactions with benzodiazepines. Triazolobenzodiazepines like Bromazolam may also possess antidepressant properties, potentially due to their chemical similarity to tricyclic antidepressants.[11]
Half Life
4-8 hours with after effects being reported into the next 12 hours. In some cases people have reported feeling anxiolytic effects well into the 24+ hour mark and withdrawals/rebound anxiety not starting until Day 4/5.
Bromazolam's subjective effects include sedation, relaxation, anxiety suppression, and decreased inhibition.
Disclaimer: The effects listed below cite the Subjective Effect Index (SEI), an open research literature based on anecdotal user reports and the personal analyses of PsychonautWikicontributors. As a result, they should be viewed with a healthy degree of skepticism.
It is also worth noting that these effects will not necessarily occur in a predictable or reliable manner, although higher doses are more liable to induce the full spectrum of effects. Likewise, adverse effects become increasingly likely with higher doses and may include addiction, severe injury, or death ☠.
Physical effects
Physical effects of Bromazolam are generally marked by intense sedation, sleepiness, and muscle relaxation.
Sedation – Can lead to profound drowsiness, including sudden onset of extreme fatigue and "nodding off."
Perception of bodily heaviness – Often accompanies moderate to high doses, leading to a lethargic state where movement is difficult.
Appetite enhancement – Reported to stimulate hunger in a manner akin to alcohol.
This toxicity and harm potential section is a stub.
As a result, it may contain incomplete or even dangerously wrong information! You can help by expanding upon or correcting it. Note: Always conduct independent research and use harm reduction practices if using this substance.
Research on the toxicity of Bromazolam has not been done, however there large amounts of overdoses have been reported in relation to Bromazolam. It is strongly recommended to employ harm reduction practices while using this or any substance.
Tolerance and Addiction Potential
Long-term use of Bromazolam can lead to tolerance, physical dependence, and withdrawal symptoms associated with benzodiazepines, including the potential for life-threatening withdrawal seizures. Notably, tolerance to Bromazolam builds more quickly than with other benzodiazepines, increasing the risk of dependence.
Dangerous Interactions
Like other benzodiazepines, Bromazolam should not be mixed with alcohol or other central nervous system depressants due to the high risk of fatal overdose caused by respiratory depression.
Warning:Many psychoactive substances that are reasonably safe to use on their own can suddenly become dangerous and even life-threatening when combined with certain other substances. The following list provides some known dangerous interactions (although it is not guaranteed to include all of them).
Always conduct independent research (e.g. Google, DuckDuckGo, PubMed) to ensure that a combination of two or more substances is safe to consume. Some of the listed interactions have been sourced from TripSit.
Dissociatives - This combination can unpredictably potentiate the amnesia, sedation, motor control loss and delusions that can be caused by each other. It may also result in a sudden loss of consciousness accompanied by a dangerous degree of respiratory depression. If nausea or vomiting occurs before consciousness is lost, users should attempt to fall asleep in the recovery position or have a friend move them into it.
Stimulants - Stimulants mask the sedative effect of depressants, which is the main factor most people use to gauge their level of intoxication. Once the stimulant effects wear off, the effects of the depressant will significantly increase, leading to intensified disinhibition, motor control loss, and dangerous black-out states. This combination can also potentially result in severe dehydration if one's fluid intake is not closely monitored. If choosing to combine these substances, one should strictly limit themselves to a pre-set schedule of dosing only a certain amount per hour until a maximum threshold has been reached.
Legal Status
Bromazolam is currently unscheduled in many countries, though some states and nations have specific controls:
- **United Kingdom:** Classified as a Class C controlled substance.[13]
- **United States:** Federally unscheduled, though state-level regulations like in Virginia have placed Bromazolam into Schedule I.[14].
- **Canada:** Classified as a Schedule IV controlled substance.
- **Germany:** Subject to national control legislation.
