Urgent warning issued over 'zombie drug' as number of young Irish people hospitalised
Also known as the zombie drug, the herbal mixture is illegal in Ireland but has become a popular substitute for cannabis
By Paul Moore, 16:44, 5 APR 2021, UPDATED11:04, 6 APR 2021
A stern warning has been issued about the synthetic drug 'spice' after some young people in Northern Ireland were hospitalised after consuming it. It is understood that those affected believed they were purchasing THC or cannabis oil, but they were unknowingly supplied and consumed the synthetic drug known as ‘spice’. Also known as the zombie drug, the herbal mixture is illegal in Ireland but has become a popular substitute for cannabis.
In terms of its composition, spice is a mix of herbs (shredded plant material) and man-made chemicals.
It is often called “synthetic marijuana” or "fake weed" because some of the chemicals in it are similar to cannabis.
The The Public Health Agency (PHA) said those affected became ill and required hospital treatment.
In terms of its effects, the drug's impact varies depending on the person - it can cause elevated mood, relaxation, and altered perception as well as extreme anxiety, paranoia, and hallucinations. It can also cause people to feel weak, have a rapid heart rate or become confused. In a statement that was released, Michael Owen, the PHA’s drug and alcohol lead, said: "There is no way to know if what you’ve been sold is what you’re actually taking and for some, they’ve found out too late and ended up in hospital after suffering the severe effects of vaping spice.
"For young people, the risk of misusing substances is particularly dangerous. The teenage years are vital to healthy cognitive function as an adult, so it is important to maintain healthy behaviour during these years. Drug abuse can impact the brain’s ability to function in the short-term as well as prevent proper growth and development for later in life."
https://www.irishmirror.ie/news/irish-news/urgent-warning-issued-over-zombie-23856970