Flualprazolam, flunitrazolam and norfludiazepam will be
controlled as Class C drugs under the Misuse of Drugs Act
1971 and placed in Schedule 1 to the Misuse of Drugs
Regulations 2001, following a recommendation from the
Advisory Council on the Misuse of Drugs (ACMD).
Crime and Policing Minister said:
Illegal drugs ruin lives and corrode the foundations of
our society.
It’s clear from the expert advice that we have received
that these drugs can cause serious harm, which is why we
are taking this action.
Unlawful possession of Class C drugs is an offence which
carries a maximum sentence of 2 years’ imprisonment or a
fine, or both. It is also an offence to unlawfully supply
or produce Class C drugs, and these offences carry a
maximum sentence of 14 years’ imprisonment or a fine, or
both.
Benzodiazepines are sedative and anti-anxiety drugs that
are used clinically for the treatment of anxiety, insomnia,
muscle spasms and epilepsy.
They can be misused in a number of ways, and are often
taken with other illicit drugs to increase their effects,
combat the effect of opioid withdrawal or to ease the after
effects of stimulant use.
Especially when used in conjunction with other illegal
substances or alcohol, benzodiazepines can cause serious
physical and psychological harm. High doses may cause loss
of consciousness and breathing difficulties, especially if
used in combination with alcohol or other sedatives. As of
March 2020, there had been 12 flualprazolam-associated
deaths in the UK.
The government keeps drug control under constant review,
working in consultation with the ACMD to consider any new
evidence of misuse, harms and diversion.
