New Public Health Scotland (PHS) Drug Alerts

On 5 February, Public Health Scotland (PHS) issued two new drug alerts. NHS Grampian public health consultant Phil Mackie, who has a leading role in the prevention of substance use-related harm locally, has shared some insights for colleagues working across health and social care, and the wider community.

As highlighted by PHS, the alerts illustrate the rapidly changing drug scene and provide information about new, unfamiliar substances which have been detected in Scotland.

The medetomidine alert highlights the emergence of a new sedative drug. Medetomidine is likely to be consumed unknowingly and has most commonly been detected in drugs sold as heroin and benzodiazepines.

The new benzodiazepines alert highlights ongoing changes to the street benzo market. New substances are appearing and previously detected benzodiazepines, including clonazolam, are re-emerging. Clonazolam is linked to increased risk due to its high potency. New tablet types are also emerging, including jelly capsules.

Phil explained: "We are not aware that these substances are circulating in Grampian yet, nor are we currently aware of any new, additional risks of harm, but it is important people are forewarned and understand that existing approaches to harm reduction outlined in the PHS alerts, including the use of Naloxone, still apply.

"We are also keen to gather any local intelligence about the possible presence of these substances so, please, if you or someone you know has been affected, get in touch with local services or contact our team by emailing gram.substancemisusealert@nhs.scot

"The alerts contain a lot of helpful information, including recognising and responding to overdoses, and information for people who take drugs. Please remember there is no safe way to take these drugs. You can also access information and advice via NHS Inform. In the event of a life threatening emergency, please continue to call 999."

Rapid Action Drug Alerts and Response (RADAR)