THE Drug Advice Service and Helpline (DASH) has issued a warning about the use of so-called legal highs and other drugs over the festive period.
It follows further cases of people being admitted to hospital in a serious condition in the UK after using a substance containing Phenazepam.
DASH Director of Services Shelly Stanley said that there are people who may purchase white powders thinking it to be mephedrone or cocaine - but as with all drugs that are not regulated they will not know what they are taking.
In a case in the Borders people had bought a specific product called Bonsai which contains Phenazepam which is also passed off as Diazepam.
It is not licenced and is highly dangerous.
Miss Stanley said: "An alert has been issued across the UK NHS regarding the seriousness of cases hospitalised, we would say to anyone that the safest way is not to take drugs in the first place.
"For those who ignore the warnings, do not take drugs after having - or before having - alcohol, phone for an ambulance at the sign of any problems, you will not get in to trouble for saving someone's life.
"If, and particularly in this weather, someone collapses do not leave them as they are more likely to suffer from hypothermia and die. For further information or advice call DASH on 615622."
