PARTYGOERS WARNED OF DRUG DANGERS

As the festive party season gets into full swing it is important that people have a safe and enjoyable time. Engaging in any drug use is risky and the aim of this message is to highlight the potential dangers. The availability of ecstasy (MDMA) has increased in recent months and a rise in tablet prices has added to a perception of better quality. Judging the quality of a tablet is impossible without scientific analysis. In addition this drug in crystal form is likely to have a very high MDMA content and therefore should be avoided like all illicit substances.

Crystal MDMA

Of major concern are tablets which look like ecstasy that have been found to contain PMMA (paramethoxymethylamphetamine). PMMA is a Class „A‟ drug responsible for a number of deaths across Europe. Detective Inspector Tommy Crombie of the SCDEA and ACPOS drugs co-ordinator, said: “An alert was issued in July 2011 and since then this drug has been found in drug-related deaths in Scotland. PMMA has been found in tablets in Scotland where they are known as „Einsteins‟ which have an „E=mc2‟ logo. “PMMA and other harmful substances could be present in many illicit drugs including powders, products sold as „legal highs‟ and ecstasy tablets in all sorts of colours and with all sorts of logos. Like all illicit drugs, there is no way to tell what‟s in them until it‟s too late“.

„EINSTEINS‟

Katy Mcleod of Crew 2000 is also reminding users about the dangers associated with MDMA use.

She said: “Fatalities with MDMA based ecstasy are relatively rare but users can experience some unpleasant side effects especially at high doses or where it is with mixed with other substances. With drugs such as PMMA being possibly in tablets, negative side effects and potential of overdose are more likely. Although users report similarities to effects of MDMA, many argue that effects can feel less potent than MDMA which can result in users re-dosing and thus increasing the risks. If you are determined to use ecstasy, please follow harm reduction advice of: starting with half a pill, wait at least an hour before re-dosing, avoid mixing with other drugs including alcohol, take breaks from dancing and stay hydrated if dancing but don‟t go over a pint of water in an hour.”

Austin Smith of the Scottish Drugs Forum also points out that signs of an ecstasy overdose could include:

Hyperthermia (very high body temperature or overheating) Dehydration Rapid heart rate Increased blood pressure Breathing difficulties Seizures Severe nausea and vomiting Muscle spasms

If you experience any medical difficulties from use of ecstasy and other drugs, please contact your local Accident and Emergency Department, your GP or NHS 24 on 08454 242424.

If you are experiencing difficulty from any drug use and would like further information advice or support, please contact Crew on 0131 220 3404 or visit their website www.crew2000.org.uk or contact Know the Score on 0800 587 587 9.