Pubdate: Sat, 19 May 2012
Source: Truro Daily News (CN NS)
Copyright: 2012 The Daily News
Contact:  http://www.trurodaily.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/1159

NEW DRUG CAUSING CONCERN IN TRURO AND ELSEWHERE

'We have heard that dealers are lacing marijuana with this
drug'

TRURO - A new street drug, known to be in use in areas of northern
Nova Scotia, has health and law enforcement groups concerned about its
harmful and psychotic effects.

Perhaps even more concerning is the fact that people may be using the
drug without even being aware.

The synthetic drug, commonly referred to as 'bath salts,' comes in
powder form and has effects similar to amphetamines. However, the
frequency of negative effects experienced with 'bath salts' is
alarming, including paranoia, violent behaviour, hallucination,
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 and the opiate treatment program in
Colchester East Hants, in a news release. "If they 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."

Hospital emergency departments in Truro and New Glasgow 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," said
Taylor, in the news release. "There have been reports that marijuana
laced with this drug, known as 'space 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.

Phone Addiction Services in Truro at 893-5900 (Monday to Friday 8:30
a.m. to 4:30 p.m.). Detox units are available 24 hours a day, seven
days a week. 
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MAP posted-by: Jo-D