Drugs are controlled by different areas of law
The Misuse of Drugs Act 1977 and the Misuse of Drugs Act 1984 are the main Acts regulating controlled drugs in Ireland. These legislations control the cultivation, licensing, possession, administration, supply, record keeping, prescription writing and destruction of scheduled substances. The implementation of The Criminal Justice (Psychoactive Substances) Act 2010 means that any substances with psychoactive effects, such as new psychoactive substances are also controlled. Controlled Drugs are scheduled in Ireland under the Misuse of Drugs Act according to their level of control, Schedule 1 controlled drugs being subject to the strictest level of control.
You can view the different schedules where drugs are categorised under Irish law here.
The Misuse of Drugs Act makes a distinction between the possession of controlled drugs for personal use and the sale and supply of controlled drugs.
Under the Misuse of Drugs Act anyone found in possession of cannabis or cannabis resin is considered guilty of an offence. However, depending on the circumstances, the situation may be managed under the Adult Cautioning Scheme.
Since the 14th of December 2020, cannabis possession commonly referenced as ‘simple possession’ may be treated with a caution in line with the Adult Caution Scheme. In these cases, it is the decision of the Gardaí to decide whether a caution, rather than a prosecution, would be the appropriate response to the commission of an offence. Consideration will be given to the type, quantity and value of the drug and whether in all the circumstances the offence disclosed amounts to simple possession. Currently the Adult Caution Scheme is only applied to the possession of cannabis and cannabis resin. No other controlled drugs are permitted under the Adult Cautioning Scheme.
Under Irish law, it is considered an offence to be in possession of a controlled drug and this means that you could receive a fine or a prison sentence of up to 12 months.
The type of controlled drug and quantity you are found with will determine the court’s decision. If the court decides that the amount you have is more than for personal use, you’ll be charged with possession for sale or supply. This means you’re being charged with having drugs to sell or give to others. It doesn’t matter if you’ve actually sold the drug or not.
The Gardaí can legally search you or a vehicle without a warrant if they suspect you might have controlled drugs in your possession or have drug involvement. They can also arrest you if they’ve reasonable grounds to suspect you of a crime under the Misuse of Drugs Act
Get more information on drugs and the current law here.
Work is currently underway on the development of a Health Diversion Scheme as a new approach for cases of personal possession of drugs in Ireland. You can find out more here
Further information will be added to Drugs.ie as this programme develops.
This resource provides an update on cannabis edible products and includes harm reduction information for people who choose to use.
Cannabis can be categorised as both a depressant and psychedelic substance. Its effects vary depending on personal factors and dosage. The cannabis plant contains compounds called ‘Cannabinoids,’ with THC (delta-9 tetrahydrocannabinol) being the primary psychoactive compound, and CBD being another well-known compound.
Forms of Cannabis:
Cannabis is typically smoked or vaped but can also be ingested as edibles.
Cannabis edibles are food products infused with cannabis, such as:
Important Note: These products are not legal in Ireland and often replicate commercial food brands.
Individual responses to cannabis edibles differ due to factors such as:
Desired Effects:
Potential Unwanted Effects:
| Aspect | Eating | Smoking/Vaping |
|---|---|---|
| Time to Onset | 30–90 minutes | 3–5 minutes |
| Time to Peak Effect | 2–3 hours | 15–30 minutes |
| Duration of Effect | 4–12 hours | 2–4 hours |
| Ease of Titration | Difficult | Relatively easy |
| Predictability | Poor | Good |
Some cannabis edible products may contain synthetic cannabinoids, which are man-made chemicals that can cause severe adverse effects, including:
If synthetic cannabinoids are suspected, call emergency services at 112/999.
For harm reduction information, visit Drugs.ie.
For concerns about substance use, contact the HSE Drug and Alcohol Helpline:
Some PDFs include additional images and graphics for reference.
Also known as Coke, Charlie, Snow, Powder, Cocaine Hydrochloride
Cocaine is an addictive, stimulant drug which can make people feel more alert, energetic and confident. In addition to the effects there are significant health risks. The effects wear off quickly, promoting the person using to repeat the dose in a binge type pattern that can increase the risks to health.
Snorting: Cocaine is most commonly sold as a fine white powder which is snorted. It can be ground down until the powder is fine, divided into lines and snorted by using a straw/tooter.
Dabbing “gumming”: Cocaine powder can be consumed by rubbing it onto the gums or by leaving it under the tongue. It is less commonly consumed in drinks or by swallowing orally.
Injecting: Cocaine powder can be dissolved in water and injected. Among certain user groups, cocaine is sometimes injected in conjunction with heroin in what is known as a ‘speedball’.
The effects of cocaine start quickly but are short lived. Cocaine causes the release of the chemical dopamine in brain circuits which results in a euphoric feeling or ‘high’. The cocaine high is sometimes followed by what is known as a ‘crash’ or ‘comedown’ where the person can feel very low.
Cocaine can raise the body’s temperature, cause convulsions, a heart attack or heart failure.
It is possible for cocaine users to die from an overdose. With stimulant type drugs, the risk of overdose increases with the amount used. The risk of overdosing is also increased if cocaine is mixed with other drugs or alcohol.
An overdose on cocaine is more likely if cocaine is injected.
Recognised consequences of cocaine overdose are:
Problems relating to acute cocaine intoxication are relatively common. Cocaine can cause a range of acute health-related problems and even sudden death.
Cocaine use is highly risky for anybody with high blood pressure or a heart condition. Even perfectly healthy, young people can have a fit or heart attack after consuming too much cocaine.
Over time, snorting cocaine can seriously damage the cartilage in the nose that separates the nostrils. Repeated sniffing of cocaine powder irritates the nose and can cause a breakdown of nasal cartilage.
Sharing snorting, injecting and smoking equipment can increase the risk of getting blood-borne viruses such as hepatitis C and HIV.
People are advised not to use bank notes when snorting and to never share their snorting equipment. Bank notes are more likely to contain germs or traces of blood from other people. It is recommended that people use a sterile straw or a metal tooter.
When a drug is snorted, it comes into contact with the lining of the nasal cavity which could bleed, leading to tiny amounts of blood remaining on the snorting equipment without the person knowing. If the blood is infected and the equipment is shared it could lead to the transmission of blood-borne viruses.
People can access sterile injecting equipment and safer injecting advice from their local needle exchange. People that inject stimulant type drugs may need to inject more often and will therefore need to ensure that they access enough supplies from their needle exchange.
Cocaine use during pregnancy is associated with maternal migraines and seizures, premature membrane rupture, and separation of the placental lining from the uterus prior to delivery. Pregnancy is accompanied by normal cardiovascular changes, and cocaine use exacerbates these—sometimes leading to serious problems with high blood pressure (hypertensive crises), spontaneous miscarriage, preterm labour, and difficult delivery. Cocaine use can reduce the supply of oxygen to the baby through the placenta which can mean smaller babies at birth, possible abnormalities or still birth.
Cocaine-using pregnant women must receive appropriate medical and psychological care. Mothers-to-be are advised not to use cocaine during pregnancy. It is important for cocaine-using pregnant women to get medical advice from a GP or their maternity team to discuss reduction or cessation. Suddenly stopping could cause possible side effects.
Cocaine can create a number of physical and mental health problems for some people.
Cocaine can cause marked changes in mood and behaviour. Using cocaine frequently can make some people feel depressed and withdrawn. It can lead to problems with anxiety, paranoia and panic attacks.
The short-term effects of cocaine can cause some people to experience a short-lived psychosis that may include auditory hallucinations. Some people may experience suspiciousness or severe paranoia, which could last for hours, days or weeks following use. During this time people can become irrational and aggressive.
Following use, a person’s mood could decline quickly. Some people find the period after use difficult. This period is commonly known as a ‘withdrawal’, ‘come down’ or ‘crash’. During this time some people can experience anxiety, paranoia, hostility and depression to such an extent that they experience suicidal thoughts and behaviours. Cocaine users also risk exacerbating any underlying psychiatric problems following use.
Cocaine powder is often diluted (‘cut’) with other substances. Some common bulking agents include talcum powder, sugar (lactose), or a local anaesthetic (lignocaine). In Europe in recent years, there has been an increase in the use of local anaesthetics especially benzocaine and lidocaine which can produce a ‘numbing’ effect similar to cocaine, but without the cocaine ‘high’.
In Ireland there have been non-fatal intoxications and deaths from drugs containing Fentanyls. Fentanyls have appeared in illicit drugs (heroin and cocaine) with people being unaware of the contents.
When cocaine and alcohol are used together they combine in the body to produce cocaethylene which increases the risk of damaging organs such as the liver and heart. Cocaethylene is more toxic than cocaine and alcohol alone and produces a greater increase in heart rates and blood pressure.
Cocaethylene prolongs the effects of cocaine and takes longer to leave the system than cocaine alone. When using both alcohol and cocaine in combination, people risk continuing to drink without realising how intoxicated they are.
Cocaethylene increases the risk of epilepsy, suicide, violence, accidents and sudden death. The latest drug-related death data shows that cocaine was recorded in 12 alcohol deaths in Ireland in 2015.
It is recommended not to drive after taking drugs. It is an offence to drive with specified levels of certain drugs in your system. Garda do not need to prove impairment and have the power to conduct roadside drug testing. The presence of cocaine, above a specified limit can lead to arrest for drug-driving.
If your oral fluid tests positive for cocaine you will be arrested and brought to the station where a blood specimen will be collected and sent to the Medical Bureau for Road Safety (MBRS) for analysis.
In relation to cocaine the limits (units in whole blood) set out in Irish law are:
The penalty for drug driving is the same as for drink driving – a maximum of €5,000 fine and up to 6 months imprisonment on summary conviction.
The length of time a substance can be detected in the system varies and can depend on the dose, purity and personal factors.
Cocaine has potential to cause addiction. This is due to the long term changes that repeated use of cocaine can cause to the brain’s reward system and other brain systems. The reward circuit eventually adapts to excess dopamine brought on by the drug. Therefore, people take more frequent doses to achieve the same high but also to prevent the onset of unpleasant withdrawal symptoms such as depression, fatigue, increased appetite, insomnia and slowed thinking.
Due to the cost of cocaine, its short term effects, repetitive use and dependency, people can sometimes develop drug-related debts with suppliers. This could lead to drug related intimidation or violence.
It is always safest not to take unknown or illicit drugs at all, if you do decide to use cocaine remember…
Avoid using if you are feeling low, experience mental health problems, high blood pressure, a heart condition or become pregnant.
You can never be fully sure of the contents of illicit drugs. A number of different types of drugs can come in white powder form. White powder could be stimulant, sedative or dissociative type drugs. There is a risk of substances or adulterants appearing in drugs. Remember, drugs from the same batch can sometimes vary in strength and purity.
Plan in advance, when, where and who you intend to use with. There is no way of knowing how you will react to cocaine, you could react differently in an unfamiliar environment.
Know the location of the medical tent or where you would go in case of an emergency. Remember, it could be difficult to get help in secluded areas if you or a friend become unwell. Take breaks from dancing, eat well before use and remember to stay hydrated.
This will remove any lumps or crystals. Ensure the powder is as fine as possible before snorting.
Use clean paraphernalia such as a metal tooter, straw or unused card. Don’t share your tooter as this increases the risk of spreading blood-borne viruses such as hepatitis C and HIV. Snorting off unclean surfaces such as toilet seats or phones can spread diseases.
Small doses can still be dangerous depending on the contents and how you react to the drug.
This includes using cocaine with alcohol and prescription medication. Mixing substances can be unpredictable and increases the risks. Cocaine and alcohol combine to produce cocaethylene which increases the risk of a heart attack or damage to the heart.
Cocaine can increase libido.
Take breaks in between use to give yourself some time to recover. Consider talking to a professional if you are finding it difficult to stop using cocaine.
Talk to your GP or maternity care team if you need support with cocaine use.
Talk to a professional about how you are feeling. If you or someone you know is at risk of suicide, you should contact a local doctor, the Accident and Emergency Department of your nearest hospital or call 112.
Know the signs of cocaine overdose. Seek medical help if needed and be honest with emergency services about what you think was taken.
If you are concerned about a substance that you or a friend have taken:
Take the DUDIT Online Self-Assessment tool to identify the impact of your use.
Search for a local support service through the Drugs.ie National Directory of Drug and Alcohol Services drugs.ie/services
For information and support on drugs and alcohol visit Drugs.ie
The HSE Drugs & Alcohol Helpline can be reached on 1800 459 459 Monday – Friday 9:30 – 5:30
Some PDFs include additional images and graphics for reference.
#DoYouUseCocaine
Crack is a form of cocaine made by chemically altering cocaine powder to form ‘crystals’ or ‘rocks’ which can be heated to produce vapours that are inhaled.
Crack is an addictive, stimulant drug which can make people feel more alert, energetic and confident. In addition to the effects there are significant health risks.
The effects of crack wear off very quickly, prompting the person to repeat the dose in a binge type pattern which increases the risks to health.
Crack has a more intense and immediate effect because it is delivered to the brain much faster than cocaine powder with effects much stronger.
Crack cocaine has been available in Ireland for a number of years with literature suggesting that drug treatment services began to notice an increase in use in the late 1990s.
Smoking/piping: Crack is most commonly smoked through a pipe. Using homemade pipes created from tin cans and water bottles is not recommended. People are advised to contact local addiction services to access approved pipes, if available.
Injecting: Crack can be dissolved in water and injected. Among certain user groups, cocaine is sometimes injected in conjunction with heroin in what is known as a ‘speedball’.
The effects of crack start quickly but are short lived. Smoking crack produces an immediate intense high because in vapour form it is delivered to the brain very quickly. Crack causes the release of the chemical dopamine in brain circuits and this results in a euphoric feeling or ‘high’. This high is often followed by what is known as a ‘crash’ or ‘comedown’ where the person can feel very low.
Cocaine/crack can raise the body’s temperature, cause convulsions, a heart attack and heart failure.
It is possible for cocaine users to die from an overdose. With stimulant type drugs, the risk of overdose increases with the amount used.
The risk of overdosing is also increased if crack is mixed with other drugs or alcohol.
An overdose on cocaine/crack is more likely if they are injected.
Problems relating to acute cocaine intoxication are relatively common. Cocaine can cause a range of acute health-related problems and even sudden death.
Crack can create a significant number of physical and mental health problems for people.
Use is highly risky for anybody with high blood pressure or a heart condition. Even perfectly healthy, young people can have a fit or heart attack after consuming too much cocaine.
People who use crack can experience breathing issues which can be brought on or made worse by the fumes from homemade crack pipes or ammonia which is used in the production of crack. These toxins can cause lung damage.
Smoking crack can cause severe wheezing, a chronic cough or asthma like symptoms. Damage to the lungs from smoking crack is generally termed ‘crack lung’. Crack cocaine inhaled directly causes inflammation to the small alveoli in the lungs that are responsible for getting oxygen into our bodies and removing carbon dioxide waste. Damage to these important lung constituents can cause symptoms similar to pneumonia such as chest pain, productive cough, shortness of breath, fever, coughing up blood and occasionally respiratory failure. These symptoms can be worsened due to the direct effect of cocaine on the small blood vessels supplying the lungs causing haemorrhaging there.
Crack users are more susceptible to other respiratory problems such as tuberculosis due to ongoing damage caused to the lung tissue. One study conducted in London found that crack cocaine users were significantly more likely than non-drug users to be smear positive on diagnosis for TB.
The authors stated that respiratory damage caused by crack use may predispose a person to infectivity. Those with HIV or a weakened immune system are also more susceptible to contracting other diseases such as TB. People using crack in properties or private dwellings with high levels of use are likely to have multiple risk factors for contracting TB.
People that use crack may experience skin problems. Some people might get itchy skin, rashes, eczema or experience a change in skin colour or grey pallor (blue or grey skin). People also risk getting local burns on the thumbs and mouth.
Cuts, blisters and sores on the lips and mouth are common among crack users. This can lead to the spread and transmission of diseases from sharing pipes.
People who use cocaine can lose weight if their health deteriorates. Cocaine is an appetite suppressant meaning people may feel less hungry when using it. Periods of prolonged crack use might see a person not eating for a number of days.
Sharing snorting, injecting and smoking equipment can increase the risk of getting blood-borne viruses such as hepatitis C and HIV.
People can access sterile injecting equipment and safer injecting advice from their local needle exchange. People can also enquire about sterile smoking equipment.
People that inject stimulant type drugs may need to inject more often and will therefore need to ensure that they access enough supplies from their needle exchange.
Cocaine use during pregnancy is associated with maternal migraines and seizures, premature membrane rupture, and separation of the placental lining from the uterus prior to delivery.
Pregnancy is accompanied by normal cardiovascular changes, and cocaine use exacerbates these—sometimes leading to serious problems with high blood pressure (hypertensive crises), spontaneous miscarriage, preterm labour, and difficult delivery. Cocaine use can reduce the supply of oxygen to the baby through the placenta which can mean smaller babies at birth, possible abnormalities or still birth.
Crack-using pregnant women must receive appropriate medical and psychological care. Mothers-to-be are advised not to use crack during pregnancy. It is important for crack-using pregnant women to get medical advice from a GP or their maternity team to discuss reduction or cessation. Suddenly stopping could cause possible side effects.
Crack can cause marked changes in mood and behaviour. It can also exacerbate any underlying mental health problems.
Cocaine use has been linked to a variety of psychiatric symptoms with crack causing more frequent, intense symptoms including psychosis.
The short-term effects of crack can see people experiencing a short-lived psychosis that may include auditory hallucinations. Some people may experience suspiciousness or severe paranoia, which could last for hours, days or weeks following use. During this time people can become irrational and aggressive.
Following use, a person’s mood could decline quickly. Some people find the come down or withdrawal period after use difficult and this has been described as a ‘crash’. During a come down period people can experience anxiety, paranoia, hostility and depression to such an extent that they experience suicidal thoughts and behaviours.
When cocaine and alcohol are used together they combine in the body to produce cocaethylene which increases risk of damaging organs such as the liver and heart.
Cocaethylene is more toxic than cocaine and alcohol alone and produces a greater increase in heart rates and blood pressure.
Cocaethylene prolongs the effects of cocaine and takes longer to leave the system than cocaine alone. When using both alcohol and cocaine in combination, people risk continuing to drink without realising how intoxicated they are.
Cocaethylene increases the risk of epilepsy, suicide, violence, accidents and sudden death.
The latest drug-related death data shows that cocaine was recorded in 12 alcohol deaths in Ireland in 2015.
There is a risk of other substances or bulking agents appearing in crack.
Heavy cannabis use, particularly high content THC varieties such as ‘skunk’, may exacerbate the tendency of crack to produce paranoia and worsen mental health symptoms.
Crack has potential to cause addiction. This is due to the long term changes that repeated use of cocaine can cause to the brain’s reward system and other brain systems. The reward circuit eventually adapts to excess dopamine brought on by the drug.
Therefore, people take more frequent doses to achieve the same high but also to prevent the onset of unpleasant withdrawal symptoms such as depression, fatigue, increased appetite, insomnia and slowed thinking.
Due to the cost of cocaine, its short term effects, repetitive use and dependency, people can sometimes develop drug-related debts with suppliers. This could lead to drug related intimidation or violence.
It is always safest not to take unknown or illicit drugs at all, if you do decide to use crack remember…
Due to the high temperature required to smoke crack there is a risk that homemade pipes will break while smoking. There is also a risk of inhaling toxic fumes which are passed from homemade pipes when heated. These fumes can cause damage to lungs. Crack cocaine inhaled directly causes inflammation to the small alveoli in the lungs that are responsible for getting oxygen into our bodies and removing carbon dioxide waste. Talk to your local addiction service about approved pipes for smoking crack.
Sharing crack pipes can lead to the spread of blood-borne viruses such as hepatitis C and HIV.
Smoke a small amount from the gauze, remove the flame and take a break. This will help you see how you react to the drug. There is a possibility that crack contains adulterants or other substances.
Using brillo pads on crack pipes can be dangerous. When heated they can cause burns to the lips, mouth, throat and damage to lungs.
Try to not hold the smoke in your lungs for a long time.
It is important to leave time between pipes to check in with how you are feeling. The pipe will get hot, give it some time to cool down before re-using.
Hold the pipe midway and not close to the top. Some people will burn their hands, it is important to look after these burns properly and not ignore them. Put ointment on cuts and burns to help them heal.
Smoking crack can lead to blisters, sores or cuts on the lips or on the inside of the mouth. Because cocaine is an anaesthetic, people might not feel if they burn or cut themselves. People should always check their lips in the mirror after they use to look for cuts, blisters or sores that they might not have felt while smoking. Lip balm can help with chapped or cut lips. Remember that cuts on the inside or outside of lips can lead to the spread of blood borne viruses if pipes are shared.
There is a higher risk of overdose if crack is injected. As well as overdose, there is also the risk of damaging veins or the injecting site.
Cocaine acts like a local anaesthetic which can make the area around the injecting site numb. This can make it harder to find a vein and could increase the risk of damaging the injecting site.
If injecting crack, ask for extra paraphernalia in case you use more than intended.
Stimulant drugs like crack can increase some people’s sex drive.
Some people can experience a bad crash or comedown and feel low after using crack. If this feeling does not pass then get support for yourself. This low feeling could lead to suicidal thoughts for some people.
If your friends are using crack, be aware of these risks and support them to access appropriate mental health or emergency services if necessary.
If you feel suicidal, try to get yourself to where you consider a safe place, contact a local doctor, the Accident and Emergency department of your nearest hospital or call 112.
Seek medical help if needed and be honest with emergency services about what you think was taken.
If you are concerned about a substance that you or a friend have taken:
Take the DUDIT Online Self-Assessment tool to identify the impact of your use.
Search for a local support service through the Drugs.ie National Directory of Drug and Alcohol Services drugs.ie/services
Talk to a local addiction service to find out where you can source sterile paraphernalia for using crack.
For information and support on drugs and alcohol visit Drugs.ie
The HSE Drugs & Alcohol Helpline can be reached on 1800 459 459 Monday – Friday 9:30 – 5:30
Some PDFs include additional images and graphics for reference.
It is a gas that when inhaled causes quick ‘rush’ and short lasting effects. When used in extra risky ways, used in large doses or used frequently over time it can cause harms to health.
Nitrous oxide has a number of industrial uses and is used medically. When mixed with air (50/50 gas and air) it is used as an anaesthetic gas for pain-relief in dentistry and child birth.
It is a colourless gas that some say is slightly sweet smelling and tasting. It can be found in different forms such as in whipped cream chargers ‘whippets’ which are small silver cartridges. It can also come as crackers with balloons attached or in large canisters which are different colours that are used to fill balloons.
Nitrous oxide is often categorised as a ‘depressant’, ‘dissociative’ or ‘inhalant’ type drug because of its effects and how it is consumed through inhalation. A depressant drug is one that slows the body down. A dissociative type drug has effects which causes disconnect or detachment from yourself or your surroundings.
Nitrous oxide is known by people who use it as ‘Laughing Gas’, ‘Whippets’, ‘Chargers’, ‘N2O’, ‘Nos’ and ‘Balloons’. Media reports have also termed this substance as ‘Hippy Crack’.
It may be confused with CO2 which comes in similar silver canisters used to inflate bike tyres. Because they are both gases used to fill balloons, nitrous oxide could also be confused with helium. The two gases are not related.
It is inhaled from a balloon which has been filled with the gas, sometimes referred to as ‘nagging’. Gas needs to be discharged from the canister (large and small) to another object such as a balloon. To release the gas from ‘whippets’ canisters, they need to be fitted into a whipped cream canister or an object known as a ‘cracker’. Larger nitrous oxide containers are also used to release gas directly into a balloon.
People may choose to use this substance for quick euphoric effects.
There are always risks with drugs and it is safer not to use at all.
It is important to note that each person will react differently to a substance, including nitrous oxide. Effects can be based on a number of factors depending on; how much is taken (the dose could be often unknown), personal factors such as the persons mental health, if the person has consumed the substance before and if other drugs, alcohol or prescription medication are used at the same time. The setting it is used in can also influence a person’s reaction.
Effects start almost immediately peaking at about 10-30 seconds after use. The effects are short lived meaning they don’t last long.
Further research is needed in relation to the short and long term risks. We know that risks are increased based on the below factors:
It is dangerous to inhale nitrous oxide directly from a canister. Inhaling directly from a canister can cause frost bite to the mouth and nose as well as cause damage the throat and lungs which can be risky. Gas within the canisters is extremely cold and needs to be warmed before inhaling.
People with heart, blood pressure or mental health concerns could be at greater risk. Nitrous oxide can cause a drop in oxygen levels which could increase heart rate.
People risk falling or accidents after use, risks are increased if used in roadways or water.
Nitrous oxide related litter is a concern in some areas.
Using nitrous oxide with other drugs increases the risks, including use with alcohol or prescription medication. It is possible that nitrous oxide taken at the same time as stimulants has a greater effect on blood pressure and heart rate.
Long terms and heavy use can cause vitamin B12 deficiency which can lead to health harms. Vitamin B12 deficiency can cause nerve damage, pain/tingling in toes and fingers and changes to skin pigment. Look out for signs of vitamin B12 deficiency such as numbness in fingers, hands and toes and don’t be afraid to discuss your concerns with a medical professional.
Suffocation can happen when taking nitrous oxide. People risk being deprived of oxygen if too much nitrous oxide is inhaled or if a person uses continuously without taking breaths. Internationally there are some reports of people experiencing suffocation or lack of oxygen.
For more information about drugs go to www.drugs.ie
If you are concerned about your own or a loved one’s substance use, contact the HSE Helpline on 1800 459 459 Monday – Friday 9:30 am – 5:30 pm or by email on [email protected]
Some PDFs include additional images and graphics for reference.
Adolescence is a period when young people come into contact with new ideas and behaviours. It is a time to “try out” adult roles and responsibilities. The desire to take on more independence may see young people seeking to explore what they or their peer group view as more ‘grown up’, interesting or new ideas which could include substance use.
At the same time as these new issues are emerging, it is important to recognise that the young person’s brain is still growing from the ages of 12 until their mid-20s. Using alcohol or drugs during this time can damage the growing brain, causing long-term emotional problems and difficulties with learning, planning and memory.
Substance use (or other behaviours) of peers, as well as rejection by peers, can be important influences on the behaviour of young people, although the influence of parents still remains very significant – parents matter! Research shows that young people view their parents as credible sources of information and are influenced by parental beliefs and behaviours. By parents initiating drug awareness discussions, it means they can create an understanding that the topic of drugs and alcohol is open for discussion in an honest and compassionate space.
The most commonly used substances in Ireland are alcohol, cannabis, ecstasy and cocaine. New, different trends may emerge from time to time among different groups of people. These novel trends may be reported extensively in the media and generate a lot of attention. This year one such trend was in relation to nitrous oxide.
Nitrous oxide is a gas that’s commonly found in pressurised canisters. The gas is usually transferred from these canisters into balloons to inhale. People use nitrous oxide to feel a quick rush or ‘high’ which can make them feel intoxicated, giddy and want to laugh. It can also make people feel calm, relaxed or less anxious. Nitrous oxide has a number of medical and industrial uses and is used by dentists and during child birth. It is also used in food preparation in whipped cream canisters.
Parents may have seen the term ‘Hippy Crack’ featured in media reports from the UK and Ireland. This term is misleading and potentially frightening as nitrous oxide has nothing in common with drugs like ‘crack cocaine’. Common names used to describe nitrous oxide are ‘Laughing Gas’, ‘Balloons’, ‘Whippets’, ‘Chargers’.
Effects can include:
We’re still learning about the short and long term risks of nitrous oxide.
It is dangerous to inhale nitrous oxide directly from a canister. Inhaling directly from a canister can cause frost bite to the mouth and nose as well as cause damage the throat and lungs which can be risky. Gas within the canisters is extremely cold and needs to be warmed before inhaling.
People with heart, blood pressure or mental health concerns could be at greater risk. Nitrous oxide can cause a drop in oxygen levels which could increase heart rate.
People risk falling or accidents after use due to loss of balance. Risks are increased if used near roadways or water.
Nitrous oxide related litter is a concern in some areas.
Using nitrous oxide with other drugs increases the risks, including using with alcohol or prescription medication.
Long term and heavy use is associated with causing vitamin B12 deficiency. Vitamin B12 deficiency can cause long term health issues, nerve damage, pain/tingling in toes and fingers and changes to skin pigment.
Suffocation can happen when taking nitrous oxide. People risk being deprived of oxygen if too much nitrous oxide is inhaled or if a person uses continuously without taking breaths. Internationally has been reports of people experiencing suffocation or lack of oxygen.
As with all products, the quality and purity could vary depending on the source. There is concern that people could confuse nitrous oxide with other gases or be sold poor quality products which could cause harm to health.
If your child is using nitrous oxide, or any drug, regularly you may wish to seek an appointment for your child and an adolescent drug and alcohol treatment service. These services now exist across Ireland and parents can generally make the referral themselves. You can also contact your local or regional Drug and Alcohol Task Force (DATF).
To find out where your local adolescent drug and alcohol treatment service or DATF is, check out Drugs.ie/services or phone the HSE Drug and Alcohol Helpline at 1800 459 459 Monday – Friday 9:30 am – 5:30 pm or email [email protected]
For more information go to Drugs.ie or download the HSE resource ‘Alcohol and Drugs: A Parent’s Guide’
Some PDFs include additional images and graphics for reference.
G is a term given to the drugs GHB (gamma hydroxybutyrate) and GBL (gamma butyrolactone). Both are depressant type drugs which can produce a high with small doses and sedation with only slightly higher doses. Users report that G makes them feel euphoric, with a loss of inhibitions, increased confidence and higher libido. Most users report that the experience is very similar to being drunk. The effects will vary from person to person and will depend on how much is consumed.
GBL is converted into GHB in the human body after ingestion. G metabolises to carbon dioxide and water, and it is rapidly eliminated from the body. It is not detectable after 8 hours in the blood and after 12 hours in urine.
G has a similar structure to Gamma Aminobutyric Acid (GABA) and acts on GABA-B receptors in the brain, the same receptors that alcohol acts on. By activating the GABA receptors, G can make a person become more relaxed and less responsive.
GBL is used legitimately as an industrial solvent and paint stripper. GHB/GBL are controlled drugs under the Misuse of Drugs Act.
There are more than 80 known names for G and its analogs. Different names are used depending on specific locations and who is using the drug. Some examples include: GHB; GBL; G; Gina; Geebs; Liquid E; Liquid Ecstasy.
Sometimes G can be bought as an already mixed solution or in its pure form of GHB/GBL. When consumed pure or almost pure, G can taste very unpleasant and may cause burns. In liquid form, G comes in a variety of different bottles.
There are three main types:
GHB: an odourless, oily liquid with a slightly salty taste, usually sold in small bottles or capsules. It can also come in white powder form, but this is rare. GHB is absorbed rapidly in the body. Its half-life is 20-30 minutes, meaning this is the amount of time it takes for half of the substance to be gone from a person’s system. The effects of GHB usually occur 15-20 minutes after ingestion and can last for up to three or four hours, if not longer, depending on the person taking it and the amount used. It is suggested that its peak time is 30-60 minutes after use.
GBL: a liquid with a chemical smell and taste. Some users report that GBL tastes like a solvent, similar to paint stripper or nail polish remover. GBL is a precursor to GHB, which means that it is converted to GHB when ingested. GBL is absorbed faster in the body than GHB and it potentially has a faster onset of action. Some users report that GBL is more potent than GHB.
1,4 BD (Butanediol): a precursor to GHB. It is used less frequently than GBL. 1, 4-BD is used in industrial and domestic products such as nail polish remover, paints and industrial solvents (as is GBL).
G is mainly taken orally in liquid form by mixing it with water or soft drinks. G is less often snorted, inhaled and injected. Injecting G is dangerous and not advisable.
The effects will vary from person to person and will depend on how much is consumed. A euphoric dose for one person may be a sedative dose for another.
The effects can begin about 20 minutes after consuming and may last up to four hours. A dose of G can make a person feel chilled out, aroused, and/or mildly high. Too much G can leave a person dizzy, confused, drowsy or vomiting. G use can also result in seizures, coma and death.
Some sought after effects:
Some unwanted effects:
The onset of withdrawal can begin 1-2 hours after the last dose and can progress rapidly. Withdrawal can last up to 12 days.
Mild withdrawal symptoms include: anxiety; tremors; insomnia & vomiting; and high blood pressure.
Moderate withdrawal symptoms include severe anxiety; confusion, delirium; feeling of skin crawling and hallucinations.
Severe withdrawal symptoms include: agitation; paranoia and psychosis; muscle breakdown, seizures and death.
G is physically addictive and dependence can develop very quickly or from regular use over a period of time. Dependence can mean that people will experience withdrawal symptoms on reduction or cessation of use, which can be severe or life threatening.
In certain situations, people may require inpatient treatment for G dependence. It is not advised that a person suddenly stops taking G themselves or attempts to self-detox. Withdrawal should be a slow, tapered process, with medical supervision of a doctor.
G has a steep dose-response curve, meaning, there is only a small variation in the dose required to produce the ‘desired effect’ and the dose which could result in an overdose. Therefore, it is very easy to overdose on G.
G has a delayed onset which means it can take longer than expected to kick in. An additional risk is that someone may take a dose, think nothing is happening, and then take another dose. This can lead to accidental overdose.
Common signs of overdose can include: confusion; vomiting; dizziness; seizure; temperature; agitation; hallucination; difficulty breathing and coma.
A number of deaths have been recorded internationally. Death can result from acute G toxicity or severe withdrawal syndrome.
GHB has the same/similar effects as benzodiazepines or alcohol, which can result in drowsiness, sedation, respiratory depression and death.
The risk of using GHB/GBL is greatly increased when used in combination with other substances like alcohol, ketamine and prescription tablets.
The use of G with stimulant drugs like cocaine, MDMA, mephedrone and crystal meth (Tina) can also be dangerous. Using G with other stimulants can make a person feel more awake. This can mean that someone can take more G than they normally would; increasing the risk of an unexpected overdose.
The sedative properties of G can leave a person incoherent or comatose, so they are unable to give their sexual consent. Whether a person unknowingly or willingly takes G, they are at risk of sexual assault. This can mean that people who use G in clubs or at sex parties are at risk of assault.
Using G can increase a person’s sex drive, thereby increasing the risk of having unprotected sex and increasing the risk of acquiring or transmitting HIV and other sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
Be prepared – carry condoms with you at all times – particularly if you know you will be using G.
Below is some harm reduction information drug workers can provide to G users.
Every drop counts: It is very easy to overdose on G as there is not much difference (less than a millilitre) between the dose that gets a person high and one that has them ‘going under’. Overdose can happen with little warning.
Start low and go slow: Always use as low a dose of G as possible and wait until the effects are felt. Wait at least four hours before taking a second dose. Each container of G may vary in concentration and strength. There is no way of knowing how concentrated or pure it is. Starting with a test dose will help calculate further doses.
Because G affects memory, it can be difficult to remember when it was last taken. Preset alarms or write down times in a G diary so there is a reliable record of time.
Take G orally: Avoid snorting or injecting G. It is extremely dangerous to inject G even when constituted with water or other dilutions.
Alcohol and G: Avoid mixing G with alcohol. Mix with water, soft drinks or juice. Alcohol mixed with G can increase the risk of overdose (or going under) and can delay the amount of time it takes for G to take effect; this can interfere with safer dosing.
G and other drugs: Avoid using G with other drugs. This carries a risk of overdose. Mixing two or more substances, especially sedative drugs (ketamine & benzodiazepines) at the same time can increase the risk of going under or death. The use of G with stimulants (crystal meth, coke, snowblow) increases the risk of paranoia, hallucinations and aggression. HIV medications can increase the effects of G. It is advisable to use a lower dose of G if using these type of medications.
G and other medical conditions: Avoid if you have high or low blood pressure, epilepsy, convulsions, heart or breathing problems, depression or panic attacks.
Effects vary: The effects of G vary from person to person. What is a euphoric dose for one person could be a sedative dose for another.
Think about tolerance: Tolerance to G can develop quite quickly meaning more of the drug is needed to get the same effect. Try to keep track of your tolerance, writing down how much you take. If you have not taken G in a while, your tolerance may decrease. A change in tolerance can result in an overdose or death even if you restart at a small dose. Developing a tolerance to G will not protect against overdose. You can still overdose on G if you have developed a tolerance or dependency.
Use in trusted company: If possible, avoid using G alone and always use with people you trust in a safe environment. Ideally, there should be someone present who is not using G, who can monitor your consumption and the after-effects. Additionally, the sedative effects of G can put people in vulnerable situations and at risk of assault in clubs, festivals or private parties.
Carry condoms: G use increases libido and lowers inhibitions. Always carry condoms when using G.
Store your G safely: You can apply food colouring to G to differentiate it from other liquids. Don’t leave G in plastic bottles at home, parties or in clubs in-case it is mistakenly consumed.
G is addictive: G is physically addictive and dependence to G can develop quickly. Try to avoid frequent use and don’t use for more than two days in a row.
Don’t suddenly stop: If you have developed a dependence to G, don’t suddenly stop using yourself. If you want to stop your G use, get information on a structured detoxification from your GP or local drug service. Withdrawal should be a slow, tapered process, with medical supervision by a doctor.
G withdrawal: G withdrawal can cause serious physical and mental health problems. Withdrawal symptoms can occur if you are dependent, reduce or miss a dose. Seek medical help from your local hospital if you experience acute withdrawal symptoms and have no G.
Seek medical help if needed: Seek medical help if you or a friend has used too much G. Don’t assume that people will ‘sleep it off’. A G overdose should be treated seriously. Going under on G can lead to seizures, coma, or death. Do not use other drugs in the hope of reversing the effects of G.
G reminder: Because G leaves the system quickly, it might be undetectable in your system by medics if you go under. Carry a ‘G card’ so medics know what you have taken. If you don’t have a G card, you could write ‘G’ or ‘GHB’ on your hand or the inside of your wrist.
For a full list of drug and alcohol services see drugs.ie/services.
Drugs.ie: Online information and support for drug and alcohol use. Includes a national directory of drug and alcohol services.
HSE: Freephone Helpline:1800 459 459. Drugs, Alcohol, HIV, Hepatitis and Sexual Health Helpline.
National Drug Treatment Center (http://www.dtcb.ie): The HSE National Drug Treatment Centre is an integrated person centered specialist addiction service.
Gay Men’s Health Service (www.gmhs.ie): Services for men who have sex with men (MSM) include free HIV and STI testing, free counselling, PEP, free condoms.
HIV Ireland (www.hivireland.ie): Services include free HIV and STI testing, free condoms, free counselling and community support services for people living with HIV.
Ana Liffey Drug Project (www.aldp.ie): Services include Open Access Service, Needle and Syringe Outreach Programme, Medical Services and Case Management Service.
Belong To Youth Services (www.belongto.org): BeLonG To is the national organisation for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgendered (LGBT) young people between the ages of 14-23.
Man2Man.ie (www.man2man.ie): Sexual health information for men who have sex with men.
Gay Switichboard Ireland (www.gayswitchboard.ie): Information and support via phone, email and online chat. Tel:(01) 872 1055 or [email protected]
Some PDFs include additional images and graphics for reference.
