Nonmedical Use of Pentazocine

Abstract

To the Editor.— Recent reports on the nonmedical use of pentazocine (Talwin) and tripelennamine (Pyribenzamine) by Showalter and Moore (239:1610, 1978) and by Poklis (240:108, 1978) may describe only the tip of the iceberg of nonmedical use of pentazocine. The previous reports described the use of pentazocine and tripelennamine in a combination called T's and Blues as a heroin substitute by street users. Within the past six months, we have begun receiving reports of the use of pentazocine in combination with other drugs for a psychoactive effect. Four respondents to our ongoing drug use survey have reported combining pentazocine with promethazine hydrochloride (Phenergan), and two respondents have reported using pentazocine with prochlorperazine (Compazine). The respondents indicated that usually tablets were crushed and prepared for injection, but that occasionally they were able to obtain drugs in the injectable form, indicating a probable diversion of medical supplies. None of our respondents were