Overview
- UC San Diego researchers report that Google searches for lorazepam rose above expected levels for 12 weeks starting after the season three release on 16 February 2025.
- Queries about how to obtain lorazepam online were about 64% higher than expected, reflecting roughly 30,000 additional searches in that period.
- No comparable spikes were detected for other benzodiazepines not mentioned in the series, including alprazolam and clonazepam.
- Experts warn that benzodiazepines carry risks of dependence and dangerous withdrawal, and that illicit online products may be misdosed or contaminated with potent opioids such as nitazenes.
- The observational study cannot show whether searches led to purchases or harm, and commentators urge best-practice depictions in entertainment, informational prompts on search engines, prescriber and public education, and enforcement against illicit sellers.