News Items

Drug Warning Legal High - Benzo Fury (21/03/11)



Its full chemical name is 6-(2-aminopropyl) benzofuran otherwise known as 6-apb. Benzo Fury is assumed to be 6 APB but contains D2PM which is a potent drug which induces psychosis. Also 6 APB which is sold as 6 APB has been shown to contain 5 APB in analyses.

Benzo Fury is currently in the main being sold in various forms from numerous ‘legal high’ suppliers over the internet, although there is supposed to be only five official suppliers in the UK. It is unknown what the remaining suppliers are distributing as Benzo Fury. Intelligence has also identified a number of street dealers as the substance becomes more widely available.

The price of Benzo Fury varies site to site, but those selling the ‘official tablets’ are retailing for £10 a 100mg tablet. The official vendors do not sell the pure chemical but the websites that do sell genuine 6-APB powder sell it for about £30 – £45 per gram, which would price it the same as some illegal drugs such as MDMA and Cocaine.

The effects are apparently similar to ecstasy although the ‘highs’ are believed to last longer but with side effects that have caused people to have a serious reactions requiring hospitalisation.

General advice to individuals to exercise caution when trying new substances including:

• not to use alone
• try a small amount first
• let others know what and how much individuals are planning to take.

See 'emergency' button at top of this page for advice on what to do if someone you are with overdoses.

Drug Warning - Heroin Purity (18/03/11)

Three known heroin injectors have recently died in the Lancashire area. It is suspected that these deaths are linked to the increased purity of heroin.

Please note there has been evidence around low purity over recent months. Heroin Injectors should:

• exercise caution when using heroin
• where possible smoke rather than inject
• consider using smaller amounts until you have assessed the strength of your drugs
• not use heroin with other drugs or alcohol
• not use alone

See 'emergency' button at top of this page for advice on what to do if someone you are with overdoses.

Drug Warning
Mephedrone - (4-methylmethcathinone), 4MMC

Mephedrone is a stimulant drug similar to ecstasy or speed. Capsules or tablets can be swallowed, while powder can be snorted. It is sold as plant food in some shops or on the internet, usually clearly marked ‘NOT FOR HUMAN CONSUMPTION’.

Are there any negative effects? Mephedrone can damage skin exposed to the substance in the nose, leading to inflammation, pain and nosebleeds, Common side-effects include:

• Dry mouth
• Loss of appetite
• Poor concentration
• Increased heart rate
• High body temperature
• Racing heart
• Panic and sweating

The comedown is miserable – feeling tired and drained but not able to sleep. These feelings can last well into the next day. There have been several deaths reported in the media, where Mephedrone has been implicated. So far, the actual cause of death has not been determined.