Cole-Hamilton: SNP need to tackle alarming rise in deaths linked to synthetic opioids

Scottish Liberal Democrat leader Alex Cole-Hamilton MSP has today warned that “without more action we will only see more tragedy” as new statistics revealed that drug-related hospital admissions, suspected drug deaths and deaths linked to synthetic opioids known as nitazenes are all worryingly high.

Figures published today show:

• Between January and March 2024, there were 1,906 drug-related hospital admissions.

• Between March and May 2024, there were 267 suspected drug deaths, with an average of 22 per week.

• Between January and March 2024, Nitazenes were detected in 4% of deaths (25), up from 2% (12) in the previous quarter.

Mr Cole-Hamilton said:

“Progress on tackling Scotland’s drugs deaths rate, the highest in Europe, has been glacial. Today’s figures show that this crisis continues to end lives and blight communities.

“I am especially concerned to see that deaths linked to nitazenes, a synthetic opioid 50 times strong than heroin, have doubled.

"I have joined with campaigners in raising the alarm about the enormous harms these substances could cause if the government doesn’t get to grips with their increasing presence in Scotland.

“The SNP has abjectly failed to address the drugs death crisis, and while this tragedy continues they have delivered real-terms cuts to drug-services.

“Well-meaning words and promises just won’t cut it. Without more action we will only see more tragedy. The Government needs to protect and strengthen the drug and alcohol budget so that everyone can access care when they need it.”