By Jonathan Blackburn
Copyright glasgowlive
The NHS has issued a warning following a spate of drug-related incidents in Glasgow — after it emerged Spice contamination is linked to at least some of the cases.
The warning comes as a number of people became severely unwell in recent weeks across the city after taking drugs sold to them as crack cocaine. A number of recent suspected drug deaths may also be connected with this situation, NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde (NHSGGC) has warned.
Recent evidence has emerged at least some of these cases are linked to contamination of the crack cocaine supply with a synthetic form of cannabis, commonly referred to as ‘Spice’, according to the health board.
Other contaminants could also be involved. The warning comes after a spate of incidents in Glasgow. On Monday, September 8, a 52-year-old man died and three others were taken to hospital after ‘taking unwell’ on Cambridge Street in Cowcaddens. Police say the incident was believed to be drug-related.
On Friday, September 12, two people were taken to hospital after taking unwell on Cresswell Street in the west end. Then on Saturday, September 13, three people were rushed to hospital after taking unwell on Renfield Lane in the city centre. Police have confirmed to Glasgow Live it appears to be drug-related.
The health board and the Glasgow City Alcohol and Drugs Partnership said many involved in these incidents experienced rapid loss of consciousness, impaired breathing and collapse, and other features such as vomiting and seizures have also been reported. Sadly, a number of recent suspected drug deaths may also be connected with this situation, the health board warned.
A multi-agency Incident Management Team is in place to coordinate the ongoing health investigation and response. Dr Daniel Carter, NHSGGC Consultant in Public Health Medicine, said “We would like to extend our condolences to anyone who has lost a loved one to drug use. We encourage anyone who uses drugs including crack cocaine to access drug services and follow harm reduction advice to help keep themselves safe.”
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NHSGGC issued advice to drug users, urging them to avoid using drugs sold as crack cocaine at this time. If people continue to use drugs, they are urged to avoid unfamiliar supplies of drugs and to start with a small amount, not to use when alone, and avoid mixing drugs.
They are urged to keep naloxone nearby, and to use it. While it does not reverse the effects of crack cocaine or synthetic cannabinoids, it should still always be given if someone is unresponsive as other drugs may also have been taken, either intentionally or without them knowing. Naloxone is available from Alcohol and Drug Recovery Services, injecting equipment outlets and participating community pharmacies.
If someone becomes unconscious, has a seizure, or experiences difficulty breathing, dial 999 immediately. While waiting for help to arrive, place the person in the recovery position (on their side) to reduce the risk of choking.
Synthetic cannabinoids are very unpredictable and difficult to dose accurately. Even the smallest quantities can lead to severe harms such as seizures, loss of consciousness and death, the health board warned.
The drug supply is volatile and unpredictable, and contents and strength can change rapidly from place to place and from one day to the next.
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