A man has died and seven other people have been rushed to the hospital after taking potentially contaminated Zopiclone insomnia tablets. Cleveland Police have issued a warning to drug users about the contaminated batch, which could cause significant illness or lead to overdose.
Incident Overview
The affected individuals were taken to North Tees General Hospital in Stockton-on-Tees, County Durham, on Friday. The police are currently investigating the death of a man believed to have ingested the contaminated tablets.
Police Statement and Warning
In a statement, Cleveland Police said: “Officers are warning drug users of a potentially contaminated batch which could cause significant illness or lead to an overdose.
Zopiclone is a prescription-only sleeping pill used as a short-term treatment for severe insomnia. It is typically prescribed for two to four weeks due to its diminishing effectiveness over time as the body becomes accustomed to the medication.
Health Risks and Usage
The drug works by triggering a calming chemical in the brain called gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA). According to the NHS, patients are advised not to drink alcohol while taking Zopiclone as it can induce a deep sleep, making it difficult to wake up.
Zopiclone has a high risk of addiction and misuse, which can lead to serious health problems, and withdrawal from the drug can be potentially fatal.
Statistics and Prescription Data
In 2023, Zopiclone was one of the most commonly prescribed sleeping pills by GPs, appearing on prescription forms 167,288 times. This number was lower than in 2021, but the drug still featured on prescription forms 368,442 times last year.
Public Appeal for Information
A Cleveland Police spokesperson said: “On Friday 28 June, police received reports of seven adults having been taken to North Tees General Hospital. They are all believed to be suffering the effects of a drug called Zopiclone. Officers are warning drug users of a potentially contaminated batch which could cause significant illness or lead to an overdose. Officers are also investigating the death of one man who is believed to have taken Zopiclone.
Call for Information
Police are urging anyone with information regarding the contaminated batch to contact Cleveland Police on 101. Information can also be provided anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
The community is advised to stay vigilant and report any suspicious activity related to the distribution or consumption of Zopiclone tablets.
