The Fife Alcohol and Drugs Partnership has been alerted to an increase in harm due to Synthetic Cannabis.

Synthetic Cannabis, sometimes known as ‘Spice’, is intended to mimic the effects of Cannabis and is sometimes referred to as a ‘legal high’.

There have been recent incidences in the UK where people have had to be hospitalised due to the use of Synthetic Cannabis, and there have been deaths reported within Europe due to its use.

Consultant Psychiatrist from NHS Fife Addiction Services, Dr Michael Armanyous, said, “Although Synthetic Cannabis is marketed as legal, people have to be aware that this does not mean that it is safe.

“So called legal highs do not come with any quality control, so users are unaware of what is really being provided.

“People have recently been reporting feeling dizzy, persistent vomiting, chest pains, palpitations, and convulsions after taking Synthetic Cannabis. These symptoms can be life threatening, and should not be ignored.

“If you suspect someone may be having a bad reaction or overdose due to the substances they have taken the simple advice is to seek emergency help by calling 999 and asking for an ambulance” Chair of the Fife ADP working group on new psychoactive substances, Councillor Ian Sloan, said, “This health warning highlights the dangers of so called legal highs. Fife Council and its partners will continue to do everything in its power to stop the supply of these harmful drugs and I would reinforce the advice of health professionals to seek urgent medical help if you or someone you know becomes unwell after taking any of these substances.” Up to date information is available on the Scottish Government’s Know the Score website and a helpline for anyone concerned about their own or another person’s drug use is available from 8am to 11pm 7 days a week on 0800 587 587 9.

Anyone with information regarding the supply of illegal substances is urged to contact Police Scotland on 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.