Dangerous drugs warning issued in Northamptonshire after rise in illicit substance emergencies
A local charity says it's facing a rise in demand for help with nitazines, which are a synthetic opiod
A local charity has raised concerns over the increasing presence of contaminated illicit street drugs in Northamptonshire, particularly synthetic opioids known as nitazines.
These drugs are significantly stronger than established substances like heroin and fentanyl.
Speaking to Greatest Hits Radio, Shanee Sharp, a senior lead in harm reduction and pharmacy, explained charity Change Grow Live's efforts in Northamptonshire to address this issue, emphasising the importance of naloxone, a drug that temporarily reverses opiate overdose effects.
Efforts are being made to ensure naloxone is visible and accessible, with kits provided to local agencies and individuals, along with necessary training.
‘One of the biggest things is just make sure someone has naloxone, encourage people to engage in drug treatment services like ourselves,’ Sharp said.
An ongoing programme aims to educate users on harm reduction techniques, including immediate contact with emergency services in suspected overdose cases, and discouraging isolated use.
Sharp highlighted the importance of people knowing their limits and recognising signs of danger such as unusual smells or appearances in substances.
Northamptonshire's Combatting Drugs and Alcohol Partnership is issuing warnings following a rise in incidents requiring emergency medical treatment from contaminated street drugs like heroin and cocaine.
Synthetic opioids, known as nitazines, are mixed with these street drugs, heightening overdose risks.
Public Health officials are pushing prevention through awareness and access to naloxone kits.
Sharp warns that even experienced users are at risk and advises first-time users to avoid these substances entirely.
Local health and police authorities are working to disrupt the supply and raise awareness of the dangers presented by synthetic drugs.