Young people given stark warning on deadly risks of taking drugs
The Office for Health Improvement and Disparities has launched a new campaign to alert young people to the dangers of ketamine, counterfeit medicines which contain synthetic opioids (nitazenes) and vapes which purport to contain THC, a cannabis derivative, but which actually contain harmful synthetic cannabinoids commonly referred to as spice.
The campaign is aimed at young people aged 16 – 24 warning of the dangers they face in taking illicit substances. Repeated ketamine use can lead to irreparable bladder damage, synthetic opioids can lead to unintentional fatal and near fatal overdoses, and vapes containing spice can lead to users becoming unconscious and can cause long term psychological harm.
Health Minister Ashley Dalton said: “Young people don’t always realise the decision to take drugs such as ketamine can have profound effects. It can destroy your bladder and even end your life.”
“We’ve seen a worrying rise in people coming to harm from ketamine as well as deliberately contaminated THC vapes and synthetic opioids hidden in fake medicines bought online.”
There are growing concerns about novel synthetic opioids, particularly nitazenes, which are increasingly appearing in counterfeit medicines sold through illegitimate online sources.
Reports of harm from THC vapes have also increased nationally, with many products containing synthetic cannabinoids that have higher potency and unpredictable effects.
Chief Inspector Sarah Johns for Devon & Cornwall Police said: “Our work over the last 18 months with Bath University on developing devices which test quickly and accurately for synthetic cannabinoids and opioids has informed our understanding of these developing national issues and subsequent safeguarding activity. We have seen a reduction in the number of vapes and liquids which contain synthetic cannabinoids, and we are able to issue contemporaneous warnings to vulnerable users if contaminated batches of other drugs are found to contain synthetic opioids.
“This campaign by the OHID is timely and valuable in highlighting the dangers associated with these synthetic drugs and with ketamine, which younger people are not necessarily aware of. Education is key to driving down demand for them and reducing the harm they can do.”
The campaign emphasises that while complete safety requires avoiding drug use altogether, those who may still use substances should be aware of the risks and know how to access help and support.
Resources will be distributed to local public health teams, drug and alcohol treatment services, youth services, schools and universities. The campaign provides information on accessing help and support for those experiencing drug-related problems or mental health issues. Information and support on drug-related issues can also be found at www.talktofrank.com or by calling the FRANK helpline on 0300 123 6600.
There are two videos on You Tube, which Devon & Cornwall Police will be sharing on its well subscribed social media channels.
Ketamine https://youtu.be/OCV4VPLBB3k
Synthetic opioids (nitazenes) https://youtu.be/fVANef6B3hs
Anyone with any concerns about the use or supply of drugs can report it to Devon & Cornwall Police online at www.devon-cornwall.police.uk
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