The legality of the drug mephedrone will be examined "very speedily, very carefully" following the deaths of two teenagers, Lord Mandelson said. The business secretary said the government would take "any action that is justified to deal with this". Louis Wainwright, 18, and Nicholas Smith, 19, died in Scunthorpe on Monday after taking the drug. The National Association of Head Teachers (NAHT) says a ban of the substance should be considered. Lord Mandelson said the government would "take any action that is needed... to avert such tragic consequences occurring in the future".
Mephedrone Mandy says: Say no to drugs, boys, or you'll end up in prostitution. Oh, wait ...
Mephedrone Facts
Recreational drug with effects similar to amphetamines and ecstasy
Sold as a white powder, also found in capsules and pills or can be dissolved in a liquidOften sold online as plant food marked "not for human consumption"
Completely different drug to methadone, which is a pharmaceutical drug typically used as a very strong painkiller or to treat heroin addicts
Reported side-effects include headaches, palpitations, nausea, cold or blue fingers
Long-term effect of taking drug unknown
Currently legal to buy and be in possession of the powder, but against the law to sell, supply or advertise the powder for human consumption under the Medicines Act
Already illegal in Israel, Denmark, Norway and Sweden
Source BBC
