Phenazepam is the synthetic drug that has been illegally circulating Texarkana streets and is responsible for more than 20 reported overdoses recently, authorities say.
The Bi-State Narcotics Task Force (BSNTF) says all of the overdoses occurred in the past month, share similar qualities, and involve young adults between the ages of 17 and 25.
The Phenazepam pill resembles the drug Xanax in both appearance and effect, authorities say, with side effects including dizziness, loss of coordination, amnesia, severe anxiety, seizures, convulsions and even death. These side effects are worsened when combined with alcohol.
Because of the severe medical problems the drug causes, the Arkansas Attorney General's office has issued a ban on Phenazepam. The drug is developed in nations that are part of the old Soviet Union, task force officials say. Yet, it has spread to Texarkana streets where the pills are illegally bought or distributed.
A spokesperson for the Arkansas Department of Health says the drug can be found in some convenient stores along with other types of synthetic marijuana but Arkansas has approved an emergency rule banning the sale and distribution of Phenazepam.
Dr. Robert Fry with the Wadley Regional Medical Center in Texarkana says although a name has been given to the drug, the danger still exists for those using it. "It's kin to but not the same as drugs used for anticonvulsives. [Phenazepam] has part of the same effects as a date rape drug but not exactly the same," says Fry.
Wadley officials say 45 to 50 people have visited the hospital's emergency room after becoming sick from allegedly using this drug.
Task force officials say they will continue to investigate the drug's distribution and will follow any and all leads that leads to an arrest. Anyone found in possession of Phenazepam could face felony charges, authorities say.
To help authorities with their investigation, call local Texarkana police at 903-798-3130 in Arkansas, Texarkana, Texas police at 903-798-3116, the Miller County Sheriff's Office at 870-774-3001 or Texarkana Crime Stoppers at 903-793-STOP. Anyone with information will remain anonymous.
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