Danger warning over little blue pill
The borough’s Drug and Alcohol Action Team (DAAT) is keen to warn young people about a small blue pill (slightly squared off in shape) that has been used in the local area in recent weeks.
One young person has been hospitalised as a result of taking this pill with cannabis, and several young people are known to have become highly aggressive after using it.
From reports, it appears that those taking the pill initially appear very energised, alert and awake and then quickly become agitated, paranoid, confused and aggressive towards themselves or others.
Little more is known about this pill and the DAAT and police haven’t yet been able to identify what substances it is made from, however work is ongoing around this. It may contain an illegal drug or be a ‘legal high’.
Cllr David Coppinger, cabinet member for adult services and health, said: “The DAAT want to take this opportunity to highlight the fact that just because a drug is legal to possess doesn’t mean it’s safe.
“Young people should assume that if a ‘legal high’ produces similar effects to ecstasy or cocaine, then it is likely to have similar risks. Little or no research has gone into the effects of ‘legal highs’ and taking them with alcohol or other drugs just increases the danger.
“Young people or their parents who have concerns about this should call the Drug and Alcohol Action Team’s young people’s worker on 01628 796518.”
Chief Inspector Lee Townsend, deputy local area commander, said: “The identification of these so-called little blue pills within our communities creates some significant concern for us, parents and professional bodies alike.
“The use of these pills may seriously impact upon the health and well-being of people and we take this extremely seriously when dealing with those are supplying such pills.
“There is a suggestion that these pills maybe what is referred to as a ‘legal high’ but I would make the point that there are many cases of such so-called legal highs being both unlawful and damaging to health.
“My first and foremost concern is to safeguard people from harm and I would urge people not to take these pills. And of course if we find people supplying these illegally it will be investigated and we will bring them to justice where necessary.”
Copies of the DAAT’s new Legal Highs postcard and/or its Drug and Alcohol Guide for Families can be obtained by calling 01628 796362 or emailing daat@rbwm.gov.uk
Young people with drug or alcohol issues or parents with concerns about a young person should contact the DAAT’s young people’s team on 01628 796518.