A warning was issued after the youngster took the pill which had a similar name to Xanax – a branded prescription drug used to treat anxiety and panic disorders.
Simba Kashiri, service lead for the Alcohol and Drugs Service, said that the pill taken by the child was thought to have contained adinazolam and bromazolam – which have not been licensed for medical use.
‘The biggest risk is the unknown of what’s being consumed,’ he said, adding that the drugs in question are particularly potent and the effects can vary from person to person. ‘There is a very high risk of accidental overdose.’
Such drugs can also cause loss of control, posing an additional risk to the user who could place themselves in a dangerous situation.
‘The other warning is that if you are taking these tranquillisers, you stand a chance of increasing your risk of overdosing if it’s mixed with other substances that work on the central nervous system as depressants, such as alcohol.’
He added that: ‘No one takes these drugs with the intent of ending up in hospital. For most people, when they do take this stuff it’s because they are after a good time. But without the knowledge of what you are taking, you are putting yourself at risk.
‘Seek urgent medical attention if you or someone else begins to experience noticeable slowed reactions, slurred speech or impaired balance.
‘If ignored this can lead into loss of consciousness. Do not leave your friends unattended – drugs may be illegal but calling an ambulance isn’t.’
Anyone who thinks they may be dependent on addictive drugs can call the Alcohol and Drugs Service for help on 445000.
