Pubdate: Sat, 19 May 2012
Source: Evening News, The (CN NS)
Copyright: 2012 The Evening News
Contact:  http://www.ngnews.ca/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/3343

NEW DRUG WITH UNPREDICTABLE EFFECTS MAKING ROUNDS

NEW GLASGOW - A new street drug is causing concern among the local
police and health authorities.

Health authorities in northern Nova Scotia are warning people that a
new synthetic drug, commonly known as "bath salts," is causing harmful
and psychotic effects to people using it.

The drug comes in powder form and has effects similar to amphetamines,
the authority said. However, the frequency of negative effects
experienced with "bath salts" is alarming, including paranoia, violent
behaviour, hallucinations, dangerously increased heart rate and high
blood pressure. The drug may be mixed with other drugs such as
marijuana. Despite the name, this product is not the type of salts
used in bathing (Epsom salts).

"This is alarming, because the user may not know what they are
taking," said Greg Purvis, director of addiction services for
Cumberland and Pictou County health authorities.

He said if people are using marijuana, they expect to experience
certain effects; however, if the marijuana is laced with 'bath salts,'
which is a stimulant, then the effects will be quite different,
especially with a drug that has such a high occurrence of negative
side-effects. "Also, because the chemicals in the street drugs called
'bath salts' are not currently regulated, some people may be misled
into thinking it is safe," said Purvis. Hospital emergency departments
in New Glasgow and Truro are reporting cases where the use of this
product has required emergency care, and officials are concerned that
use could become more widespread. Dr. Robin Taylor, medical officer of
health for Colchester East Hants, Cumberland and Pictou County health
authorities, warns that people may be exposed to this drug without
realizing it. "We have heard that dealers are lacing marijuana with
this drug," states Taylor. "There have been reports that marijuana
laced with this drug, known as 's! pace weed,' is being sold to
unsuspecting buyers. I am concerned that people could be introduced to
this drug without knowledge, or without an understanding of its
hazards." Individuals having difficulties with the use of alcohol or
drugs, or anyone concerned with their use are encouraged to contact
Addiction Services to find out what resources are available to both
the user and family. Addiction Services in New Glasgow can be reached
at 755-7017 (Monday to Friday 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and the Pictou
Detox 485-4335 that is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
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