| Non-fatal overdoses suffered by illegal drug users are also on the increase, and authorities fear the purity of heroin circulating in the city may be contributing to the trend.
A review group, comprising various local agencies, is monitoring the cases.
Detective Inspector Wendy Symington, Tayside Police drugs co-ordinator, said, “It is concerning the numbers of suspected drugs deaths have increased considerably.
“Tayside Police contributes to the efforts of the local Drug and Alcohol Action Teams’ (DAATs) drugs death review group, which monitors and examines ways in which deaths can be prevented in the future.
“Unfortunately, every drug-related death represents a tragic waste of life and brings terrible grief to the families involved, but it is important the police and other agencies constantly work together to reduce the numbers of deaths being experienced.”
According to the latest figures, since the start of 2007 there have been five suspected drugs deaths involving men in Dundee — compared with two over the same period last year.
“Obviously, we cannot confirm at the moment what the exact cause of death was with the suspected cases in the last two months,” continued DI Symington.
“It is difficult, unfortunately, to pinpoint an exact reason at any time why drugs deaths are occurring.
“It could be the person’s tolerance to the drugs they are taking is less than they thought, the purity of the drug may be high, or an unknown mixing agent might be used that may cause an adverse reaction.
“It may be the person’s first drug of choice is unavailable, meaning they might take an alternative drug.”
Authorities also revealed the number of non-fatal overdoses is giving cause for concern, noting that for those involved the “next time it could be fatal”.
DI Symington said, “People have to understand if illegal, controlled or prescription drugs are taken, sometimes for the reasons mentioned before or in excessive amounts, there is a real possibility of an overdose.
“Some people are fortunate they have been given the appropriate treatment in time but others are not so lucky.”
People are being urged to be aware of what they should do in an emergency, if friends or family take ill as a result of drug use.
Advice includes calling 999 at the earliest opportunity and explaining what has happened, and putting the casualty in the recovery position.
DI Symington added, “It is important the misery of drug addiction is tackled by reducing the demand for illicit drugs as well as targeting those concerned in the supply of drugs.
“Also, by engaging and educating children, hopefully they can be given the information they need to resist peer pressure and see the benefits of living a healthy lifestyle.” |
