Shadow Minister for Substance Abuse Martin Hamilton-Smith has issued a warning against the use of so-called “giggle pills” until the harmful effects of the substance are cleared by the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA).

 

The warning follows the Queensland Government and police force sounding the alarm after a 19 year old was admitted to hospital with a dangerous heartbeat after consuming ‘giggle pills’.

 

The pills are available for sale in SA over the counter for approximately $10.

 

“Firstly, the Rann Government should issue an official health warning about the potential dangers of these pills” Mr Hamilton-Smith said.

 

“Secondly, the Minister for Substance Abuse should seek advice from SA Police Commissioner Hyde as to whether the pills should be withdrawn from sale until the TGA has completed its work.

 

“Thirdly, there needs to be a streamlining of communication arrangements between the states and territories to ensure health warnings are effectively communicated around the nation.

 

“Identification and communication of public health and safety issues should not be reliant on media reports.

 

“Website warnings about the ‘giggle pills’ point to symptoms such as ‘jaw tension, altered perception, insomnia and suppressed appetite’.

 

“Consumers are warned not to take it if pregnant, lactating, suffering a heart condition, mental illness or high blood pressure.

 

“It would be a tragedy given the warnings we have now received from Queensland if death or injury occurred in SA in the days or weeks ahead as a result of abusing this substance.

 

“The Rann Government must be pro-active in getting the warning message out to the community”.