Xanax - 2 MG (Etizolam)*

What is etizolam?

There have been recent media reports in British Columbia of street opioids being produced with a drug called etizolam. Etizolam has been detected in a number of cases in Alberta. Etizolam is similar to benzodiazepines like Valium, Xanax, and Ativan.

What are benzodiazepines? Benzodiazepines (aka “benzos”) are central nervous system (CNS) depressant drugs used to treat people with anxiety disorders, panic attacks, sleep disorders, or seizure disorders. Common side effects of benzodiazepines include:

• Dizziness • Confusion • Drowsiness or sleepiness • Trouble remembering things • Slurred speech • Muscle weakness • Trouble with balance or coordination.

Mixing benzodiazepines with other CNS depressant drugs such as alcohol or opioids can increase the risk of poisoning/overdose and complicate management and reversal of symptoms.