An unusual detection of 2 ‐amino‐3‐(2‐chlorobenzoyl)‐5‐ethylthiophene and 2‐methylamino‐5‐chlorobenzophenone in illicit yellow etizolam tablets marked “5617” seized in the Republic of Ireland

Visually similar round yellow tablets marked “5617” below a scoreline on one side and “5” on the reverse were found to contain 2-methylamino-5-chlorobenzophenone in combination with 2-amino-3-(2-chlorobenzoyl)-5-ethylthiophene and/or etizolam in varying proportions. 2-Methylamino-5-chlorobenzophenone is known to be both an intermediate in the synthesis of diazepam and also one of its degradation products, whereas 2-amino-3-(2-chlorobenzoyl)-5-ethylthiophene has been reported as an intermediate in the synthesis of etizolam but not as a breakdown product. Online discussions reveal that users believe the illicit tablets to be a new preparation containing diazepam. AbstractBenzodiazepines are a class of compounds used clinically to treat a variety of conditions including anxiety and insomnia. Their potential for abuse has led to a surge in their availability on the illegal drugs market. End users often rely on markings on illicit tablets to identify their contents. However, falsified tablets mimicking genuine pharmaceutical preparations often contain ingredients that differ from what people believe they are taking. The absence of any quality control of the content, purity, or strength of fake tablets can result in adverse effects or even fatal outcomes. In recent years, drug seizures involving illicit round yellow tablets marked “5” on one side and “5617” below a scoreline on the reverse have been submitted to Forensic Science Ireland (FSI) by An Garda Síochána ...
Source: Drug Testing and Analysis - Category: Drugs & Pharmacology Authors: Tags: SHORT COMMUNICATION Source Type: research