An off-white powder/fine crystals expected to be alprazolam was found to be a synthetic cannabinoid AB-MDMSBA. No alprazolam was detected. This is the same synthetic cannabinoid we detected in February 2026 in pill form.

What is AB-MDMSBA?

AB-MDMSBA is a synthetic cannabinoid and is structurally similar to other known synthetic cannabinoids like QMPSB.

People who have experienced AB-MDMSBA, generally report they don’t like its effects.

AB-MDMSBA has been detected by drug checking services in Australia and New Zealand, being misrepresented as benzodiazepines.

Other synthetic cannabinoids have been linked to serious harm including death.

What do we know about synthetic cannabinoids?

Synthetic cannabinoids may have harmful and unpredictable effects which may include:

• Fast or irregular heartbeat
• High blood pressure
• Nausea or vomiting
• Seizures
• High body temperature
• Sedation, drowsiness
• Confusion, loss of touch with reality
• Paranoia, anxiety and panic attacks
• Loss of consciousness

Harm Reduction Tips

Recognise the signs someone needs help. Call triple zero “000” and ask for an ambulance
immediately if you or someone else has any of the below symptoms after taking this substance if they:

• Cannot be woken up
• Experience difficulty breathing or
• breathing stops
• Have a seizure
• Experience chest pains
• Have a very fast beating heart

Carry naloxone. Even if you don’t plan to take an opioid. Naloxone temporarily reverses opioid effects and is legal and widely available.