Wiltshire police officers have today issued a warning to parents after around 20 teenagers needed medical treatment after taking the prescription drug Xanax.
The drug, which is a benzodiazepine, is prescribed by a doctor for anxiety disorders.
On Monday 8 May, a 15-year-old girl was taken to hospital after taking the drug, sparking the police to issue an urgent message to parents and carers.
Wiltshire Police said: “It can cause cardiac/respiratory difficulties, slow down reactions and can make a person feel drowsy, lethargic and forgetful. These drugs can also lead to problems concentrating, headaches, vertigo and are very addictive. When taken with or even without alcohol they can slow the heart rate down to dangerous levels.”
All of the teenagers are now recovering – the side effects can last for several days.
Inspector Pete Sparrow said: “We are concerned about these incidents in which young people are deliberately risking their health.
“The effects of taking any drugs which haven’t been specifically prescribed for you can have serious or even fatal consequences and we urge parents/guardians to talk to their children about the dangers. We are investigating where the supply to these young people has come from and ask that anyone with information comes forward.”
