A NEW report has found that 21% of ‘legal high’ samples collected in Wales contained an amount of various controlled substances.
This percentage shows that people can never be sure of what is in so-called ‘legal highs’, or be certain that what lies within complies with UK drug laws.
This figure was revealed in the Welsh Emerging Drugs and Identification of Novel Substances Project (WEDINOS) Annual Report 2014-2015, published on February 3 by Public Health Wales.
The report found that many of the packaged ‘branded’ products available in shops and via the internet contained more than one drug.
The report also revealed that of the 76 MDMA/Ecstasy samples submitted for testing, nearly half did not contain MDMA. 14% of controlled samples were also found to contain a non-controlled ‘New Psychoactive Substance’ compound.
The samples were submitted anonymously by individuals and organisations including youth and substance misuse services, night clubs and bars, mental health community teams, the ambulance service and police.
The average age for all mind altering/psychoactive sample providers was 36, but ranged from 14 to 68 years old.
Josie Smith, Programme and National Lead for Substance Misuse at Public Health Wales, said: “These findings provide stark evidence that people can never be sure of what is in ‘legal highs’ – which we call ‘new psychoactive substances’. Most importantly, people are at risk of experiencing a range of adverse physical and psychological effects.”
Smith continued: “New psychoactive substances coming onto the market in Wales and across Europe pose a number of threats, with users at risk of acute harms which are well evidenced in this report. The long-term risks associated with these drugs are currently unknown.”
“It’s important we provide accurate analysis along with pragmatic harm reduction information for users and those considering use so they’re aware of all the risks,” concluded Smith.
Those seeking to receive support for drug or alcohol related concerns can contact the Wales Drug and Alcohol Helpline on freephone 0808 808 2234, by texting DAN to 81066 or by visiting dan247.org.uk.
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