Daily Mirror (Northern Ireland)
STARK WARNING ON BENZO ABUSE
Spike in deaths linked to tranquilisers
A WARNING has been issued over the misuse of tranquilisers after a spike in deaths linked to benzos.
The most recent figures revealed there were 45 fatalities linked to the medicine in 2014 but 63 in 2015.
The warning comes after the Drug and Alcohol Monitoring and Information System suggested a number of people have become gravely ill after taking unprescribed benzos.
In some cases they were taken with other drugs.
The Public Health Agency and Health and Social Care Board are warning of the dangers of misusing benzodiazepines and urged those who feel unwell after taking them to seek urgent medical help.
HSCB spokesman Joe Brogan said: “Benzodiazepines include drugs such as diazepam, nitrazepam, temazepam and alprazolam. These drugs have many potential side-effects and may increase the risk of suicide.
“They are particularly dangerous when used in combination with other prescribed or illicit drugs such as pregabalin or heroin, and they are often a factor in lethal overdose.
“The board has received a number of reports of increasing use of the drug alprazolam [brand Xanax] even though it is rarely prescribed by GPS here.
“Reports also suggest counterfeit benzodiazepines are circulating. Hence people should never obtain them from an alternative source such as street sales or the internet as the quality and content cannot be assured.
“Benzodiazepines should only be taken when prescribed to you by a GP or other healthcare professional.
“The recommended dose should not be exceeded and, as with other medication, they should never be shared with others such as neighbours, family or friends, even if symptoms are the same.” PHA spokeswoman Victoria Creas added: “If you think you might have a problem with alcohol and/or drugs and would like to get help, please visit www.drugsandalcoholni.info for information on support services near you.
“There is also a range of services available to you if you are affected by someone else’s drinking and/or drug misuse.
“These services are available to you regardless of whether or not your loved one is receiving help for his or her alcohol and/ or drug problem.”
Det Supt Bobby Singleton said: “The misuse of prescription drugs and the deaths that result from it are a real concern. If you supply controlled drugs in unlawful ways – you are committing an offence.
“I would urge anyone with information about people who are unlawfully supplying medicines to contact the police on 101 or anonymously through the independent charity Crimestoppers.”