If you have taken drugs or have misused a medication and are feeling unwell, or if someone you know is experiencing this, please seek medical help urgently, in an emergency, call 999 for an ambulance.

There are reports of young people in Northern Ireland buying THC or cannabis oil, but instead being supplied with and taking the synthetic cannabinoid drug ‘Spice.’

This has led, in cases, to them being admitted to hospital for treatment.

Spice and other SCRAs

Spice is a nickname for a herbal mixture containing one or more of a group of drugs called synthetic cannabinoids. They are created in laboratories to mimic the effects of other drugs like cannabis.

Technically they are called Synthetic Cannabinoid Receptor Agonists – or SCRAs.

Synthetic cannabinoids like Spice are relatively new drugs. Evidence is still coming out about harms associated with their use.

We do know that people can have severe reactions after using them. Consuming through a vape, with or without other e-liquid/s, could make them even more unsafe.

All drugs, whether illegal drugs or prescription medication, carry risks.

It is strongly recommended that you do not take anything unless it has been prescribed to you by a medical professional and in accordance with your prescription.

If you have taken drugs or have misused a medication and are feeling unwell, or if someone you know is experiencing this, please seek medical help urgently, in an emergency, call 999 for an ambulance.

A useful leaflet giving advice on how to approach this subject at www.pha.site/YourChildandDrugs.

Further reading on vapes and mixing other drugs at Vapes | FRANK (talktofrank.com).

Services are available for people who want to reduce or stop their use of substances. 

Support is available for people affected by a loved one’s use of substances.

Helpful tips for Parents/Guardians:

Do

• Make the first move. Bring up the topic of alcohol and drugs. Don’t wait until there’s a problem before you decide to talk.
• Take time to listen to what young people have to say.
• Respect their views if you want the same in return.
• Discuss the risks associated with drinking alcohol and substance misuse.
• Discuss possible consequences of their actions and support them to make the right choices.
• Think about your own behaviours and the influence this can have on young peoples’ behaviour.

Don’t

• Assume young people don’t want to talk. Not talking to them could be interpreted as your approval of them drinking or taking drugs.
• Assume they already know everything.
• Interrupt or be judgemental, even if you don’t agree with their opinion.

For information about vaping UK-regulated, nicotine-containing products, visit www.pha.site/vaping. Included here are resources for parents that have been distributed digitally and in hard copy to schools.