Police said drug deaths caused misery to relatives

There were 23 drug related fatalities in Grampian in 2005, but 38 confirmed so far in 2006 and six more suspected.

Grampian Police joined NHS Grampian in issuing the warning about the "very real" dangers users face.

Inspector Ally Prockter said: "Every drug related death is a tragic waste of life which causes distress and upset."

The 2006 total now exceeds the average annual number of deaths for the preceding five years, which stands at just under 37.

'Extremely risky'

Insp Prockter, the substance misuse co-ordinator, said: "I find myself in the position, once again, that I need to re-emphasise the dangerous and unpredictable results that can occur when anyone uses any form of illegal drug.

"Drug misuse is an extremely risky activity. Taking individual drugs is hazardous enough, however taking any form of substance, including alcohol, particularly in combination increases those risks considerably."

He said lives could be saved if anyone who witnessed a possible drug overdose contacted the emergency services immediately, as well as placing any unconscious person in the recovery position.

Dr Maria Rossi, consultant in public health medicine at NHS Grampian, said: "A great deal of work is ongoing in an attempt to reduce drug related deaths.

"Helping people to get out of the cycle of drug misuse initially through needle exchange, improved health information and harm reduction, can only be truly effective when those using the drugs respond positively to such advice."