Two pills known to have "extremely adverse effects" are in circulation
POLICE and PARTNERS are warning people about the dangers of two tablets known to be circulating in the UK.
Detective Inspector Brian Mackay said: "We are aware that two extremely dangerous tablets are in circulation. These are called the "WHITE MITSUBISHI" and the "HEINEKEN STAR" which is yellow in colour. They are known to have extremely adverse effects on those who have taken them. Quality assurance is not something applied to illicit drugs, a fact that is increasingly supported by forensic analysis. Drug dealers are only interested in making money, so users can never be really sure what they are taking or what is contained in a substance when they are supplied by illegal sources. Users need to be aware of the dangers and understand the potentially devastating effect it can have on their health. I would urge people to avoid such products and report any information to the police on 101 or contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111."
Ken Oates, Consultant in Public Health for NHS Highland said: "Taking illicit drugs is extremely hazardous and there is no way to make taking illicit drugs completely safe. NHS Highland works closely with the Highland Alcohol and Drug Partnership, Police Scotland, Highland Council and our other partners to tackle these issues. I would advise anyone who has concerns about drugs to contact the relevant organisations for advice and support."
Drug users can get more information and advice from the following:
Highland Drug and Alcohol Partnership 01463 704603
Harm Reduction Services 01463 717594
Osprey House 01463 716888
NHS Highland has issued the following advice:
Avoid using drugs on your own, and always tell friends what you’ve taken and keep an eye on each other.
Remember they can be cut with other drugs or materials which can be harmful in themselves.
Never take drugs in combination heroin taken along with benzodiazepines and/or alcohol is particularly dangerous.
Watch for overheating - Ecstasy affects the body temperature control. Dancing for long periods in a hot atmosphere increases the chances of overheating and dehydration. Take regular breaks from the dance floor to cool down.
Be careful about fluid intake. Reduce the risks by sipping fluids - gulp roughly a pint of water every hour. Don’t drink alcohol.
Keep an eye on your friends they might not realise they are in danger of overheating or becoming dehydrated.