18 August 2010
People in Jersey are being reminded of the dangers of using so called ‘legal highs’ after a rise in UK hospital admissions following severe reactions to taking these substances.
The Jersey Public Health Department has issued warnings to hospital doctors, GPs and the youth service with advice on the symptoms to look out for. UK analysis suggests ‘legal high’ suppliers are changing the ingredients regularly, creating new combinations to keep ahead of the law. There are many products being sold known under a range of product names such as ‘Ivory Wave’, ‘Benzo Fury’, ‘Ivory Coast’, ‘Purple Wave’ and ‘NRG-zone’.
Medical Officer of Health, Dr Rosemary Geller, said “It is important that people understand that just because a substance is sold as legal, it does not mean it’s safe to take. ‘Legal highs’ can contain a range of potentially dangerous chemicals, some of which may also be illegal to possess. So, users can never be 100% certain about what they have bought, what the effects might be and whether it’s illegal or not.
Earlier this year, a group of drugs known as cathinones, which work in a similar way to ecstasy and speed, were placed under Class B controlled drug status. This includes the ‘legal high’ Mephedrone which was originally made a controlled drug in Jersey in November 2009 under Class C. Growing evidence of its dangers led to its reclassification to Class B on 2 June.
Side effects for users of cathinones include abnormal heart rhythms, fits, agitation and paranoia, hallucinations, severe nosebleeds, vomiting, rashes and overheating. The risks are even greater if used with alcohol or other drugs.
gov.je