One of the most prominently reported New Psychoactive Substances (“Legal Highs”) in the UK over the last couple of years has been a drug called Benzo Fury. Products that are marketed under this brand name normally contain the chemical 6-APB or 5-APB.
6-APB is a drug that has a mild stimulating effect that is similar to drugs like Amphetamines (speed) and Ecstasy (MDMA). Users report that the experience of sounds and colours are intensified when they take the drug. Negative effects of the drug can include confusion and panic attacks.
6-APB and its sister drug, 5-APB are classed together as benzofuran compounds, with Benzo Fury being the name they are most likely to be found being sold under. The name of the drug is derived from the benzofuran ring in the chemical structure. It should not be confused with benzodiazepines, which are minor tranquillisers.
What Do Benzo Fury And Other Benzofuran Compounds Look Like?
Benzo Fury has been available to buy in various forms:
- as coloured tablets — these are often referred to as ‘pellets’
- as a brown or white powder
- as coloured capsules
The drug is normally swallowed or snorted in lines. When swallowed, it is sometimes rolled up in a cigarette paper. This method of taking the drug is known as ‘bombing’.
What Are Benzofuran Compounds?
This group of compounds are stimulants that can cause:
- Short-lived feelings of warmth and affection for others
- Dilated pupils, tingling feelings, increased blood pressure and other physical effects
- Anxiety and maybe even panic attacks
- Confusion and paranoia
- Increased body temperature which may cause overheating
- Possible overdose and death
Are Benzofuran Compounds Illegal?
Benzo Fury and other benzofuran compounds fell, until recently, into the category of “legal highs”. However, the UK government, in June 2014, made these types of drugs illegal following expert advice on the dangers of the compounds.
Benzofuran compounds are now classified as Class B drugs in the UK. This means that possession of benzofuran compounds carries the risk of a maximum stay in prison of five years. Supplying the drug for others to use carries a maximum sentence of 14 years in jail.
While benzofuran compounds were previously considered “legal highs”, their dangers have become more apparent over time. Recent studies have shown that these stimulants can be addictive and lead to withdrawal symptoms when stopped suddenly after prolonged use. Additionally, they have been linked to several overdose deaths in the UK and elsewhere.
Some researchers believe that benzofuran compounds may be more toxic than related stimulants like MDMA, potentially causing long-term damage to serotonin receptors in the brain. This could lead to lasting problems with depression, anxiety, and cognitive function. More research is still needed to fully understand the health risks of these novel psychoactive substances.
Recent Incidents And Risks
The dangers of Benzo Fury aren’t just theoretical. In July 2013, a tragic incident in Greater Manchester highlighted the very real risks associated with this substance. A 27-year-old woman from Sale died after reportedly taking a powder believed to be Benzo Fury. Initially thought to be an ecstasy overdose, police later clarified that they had recovered a powder known as Benzo Fury at the scene.
This case underscores the unpredictable nature of these compounds. Even experienced users may not fully understand the potency or purity of what they’re taking. It’s a stark reminder that the term “legal high” doesn’t equate to “safe”. As Detective Inspector Frank Morris stated following the incident, this tragic death shows the “dire consequences” that taking such drugs can have.
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This post first appeared in 2013. It was last updated in September 2024.
