‘Legal’ drug Mephedrone could have devastating side effects

Nov 27 2009 The Journal

POLICE are warning of the dangers of revellers taking a “legal” drug, which has led to five young people in the region being hospitalised.

Mephedrone is being sold legally on the internet as plant fertiliser but is more commonly known on the streets as “drone”, “bubble”, “meow meow” or “legal high”.

Its chemical formula is one molecule different to ecstasy and as such dealers are claiming it is not a controlled substance.

Those selling the drug claim that in powder, crystal or liquid form it is equivalent to a “legal ecstasy”.

However, Durham Police are warning that its use can result in severe nose bleeds, nose burns, hallucinations, blood circulation problems, rashes, anxiety and paranoia, fits, delusions and can lead to a heart attack. Police said five young people had been admitted to hospital in County Durham in recent weeks after taking mephedrone.

In Sweden an 18-year-old died from taking the drug and it has now been banned there, as well as in Israel, Norway and Finland.

Acting Sergeant Mick Urwin said: “The misuse of mephedrone could have a significant impact on the drugs market nationally and locally.

“It’s likely its use will become wider as word gets around of the ease of its availability and the fact it is not an illegal substance.

“There are no criminal offences relating to the possession or supply of mephedrone and the effects are the same as Class A drugs.