A campaign warning of the dangers of cocaine use over the festive season has been launched.
The Cocaine Awareness Weekends at pubs, nightclubs and student unions in Edinburgh and Glasgow will let people know the real risks of taking cocaine which can increase the chances of having a heart attack and is associated with stroke.
Use of the drug can lead to increased heart rate, palpitations, sweating and chest pain, which can result in users becoming agitated and anxious, which can lead to panic or paranoia.
The initiative targets 18-26 year olds to raise awareness of the health risks of taking cocaine, which is now the second most used drug among young people.
Minister for Community Safety, Fergus Ewing, said: "Many young people are not aware of the risks involved in cocaine use and the Scottish Government want to ensure they have all the facts by providing clear information in pubs, clubs and student unions.
"Across Scotland we’re tackling the damage caused to our communities from drug misuse. We’re equipping our law enforcement agencies with the powers and resources to take out drug gangs while funding health and other local agencies to help those gripped by drug addiction to recover their lives.
"I’m delighted at the support from our local partners, in particular many licensees, for this important joint initiative.
"As well as making clear the legal consequences of drug misuse, people need to know the health risks, even from so-called ‘recreational’ use of cocaine. By informing them, this campaign can help Scots enjoy their festive season in safety."
The weekends are being held before and during the Christmas party season at a time when temptation to experiment with cocaine may be high.
Further Cocaine Awareness Weekends will be held in Dundee and Perth at the end of November and in Inverness and Aberdeen at the start of December.
