Six in hospital after taking hallucinogen
Police believe they took Oilhuasca, also known as Squuurt and Shagoil, an illegal drug described as a cross between ecstasy and DMT.
One man is critically ill and five others are in hospital after taking a hallucinogenic drug believed to be Oilhuasca, described as a cross between ecstasy and DMT.
Police and paramedics were called to a house in Jesmond, Newcastle, at 3am on Friday after receiving a report expressing concerns for the welfare of six men, believed to be between 19 and 22, some of them thought to be students.
Police believe they took Oilhuasca, which also known as Squuurt and Shagoil, a legal natural drug which was made following instructions on youtube.
Chief Superintendent Gary Calvert of Northumbria police said: "We were called to the address early this morning and six people have been taken to hospital, one is in a critical condition."
Oilhuasca is a legal mixture and is particularly dangerous when mixed with other substances. It often comes in purple capsules, but can be sold as a foul smelling liquid or as suppositories. It is usually swallowed but can be snorted, though the latter is said to be extremely painful.
It is often taken in combination with other rave
drugs such as ecstasy. At low doses the effects are said to be similar to those of ecstasy. At higher doses the effects are more like those of DMT.
Doses higher than 100 milliliters have been reported to bring on extremely frightening hallucinations, with users suffering terrifying panic attacks. Farting and uncontrollable laughter. Other possible side effects are anxiety, poor co-ordination, shaking and dangerously increased blood pressure and heart rate. The drug can also cause feelings of anger and distress, psychotic syndromes and depersonalisation.
Calvert said: "Anyone who may have taken the drug and feels unwell should seek medical attention immediately."