Two deaths prompt fake diazepam warning

Diazepam is a Class C drug if someone does not have a prescription for it

People have been warned about fake diazepam pills after the deaths of two people were linked to the drugs.

Cumbrian authorities including the police and councils have urged people not to buy the drug - also known as Valium - which is being sold online, through messaging chats and on the streets.

Cumberland Council said circumstances around the death of two people in West Cumbria involving the fake pills had sparked a multi-agency response across the county.

The council said the fake pills "often came in blister packs to look more convincing" and urged anyone with information to contact police.

The council said buying the pills without a prescription by a medical professional meant there were "no guarantees as to what the drugs bought may actually contain, or the dosage levels".

Diazepam, used to treat anxiety, muscle spasms and seizures, is a Class C drug if someone does not have a prescription for it.

Signs that someone may have overdosed include:

• Reduced consciousness

• Seizures

• Difficulty breathing (long pauses between breaths compared to normal, snoring or raspy breathing)

• Deep snoring/gurgling noises

• Blue or pale lips, nail beds, fingers or toes

• Pale, cold and clammy skin

• Unable to wake up

Source: NHS website / Cumberland Council

The council said if anyone had taken the fake medication and started to feel unwell, they should contact 999 immediately and follow the instructions given.