A potent form of ‘potentially deadly’ street Valium is flooding the streets of Ayrshire.
The warning message has been issued in the Wallacetown area of Ayr after users 'anecdotally’ told peer workers of the dangerous batch.
Ayrshire Live understands that drug support workers are on high alert over the drug.
The Riverside Community Trust (RCT) first raised the alarm several weeks ago with users passing on their concerns.
Last week, a source confirmed that the charity which provides services to the homeless and those with drug issues is making users aware with leaflets being handed out at meetings.
Police said there was no proof of a ‘bad batch’ circulating in Wallacetown, with public health stating they are “committed” to tackling drugs misuse across Ayrshire.
In a warning to users, the RCT shared a poster which warned: “There is a really potent batch of street Valium in circulation.”
The poster urged anyone with concerns to call 999 in an emergency situation or speak with We Are With You addiction services or NHS Addictions in South Ayrshire.
An RCT spokesperson said: “We were recently informed, on an anecdotal basis, of potentially dangerous valium being available in the local area. We believe it is our duty to make our service user community aware of the risks posed by these particular drugs.
“We do not have any further information on the source or use of the Valium supplies in question.
“As this matter concerns the illegal use of drugs, we would refer any further enquiries to the local police who are aware of it.”
Lynne McNiven director of public health at NHS Ayrshire & Arran said: “NHS Ayrshire & Arran remain committed to tackling drug misuse in Ayrshire and Arran.
“People can and do recover from addiction. We always advise not to take any substances, drugs or other medicines that are not prescribed.
“However, help and advice is always available from family doctors (GPs) or local Addiction Service and anyone affected or concerned about drug use can contact them at any time.
“Our addiction services team provide detoxification treatment interventions to support people who want to stop taking drugs. This support is available at home and in local community settings.
Hospital-based detoxification facilities are now also available at Woodland View in Irvine for those people for whom home detoxification is deemed unsuitable after assessment.”
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