Contaminated Zopiclone causes hospitalizations and death in County Durham
- Seven people in County Durham were hospitalized after taking contaminated Zopiclone, a sleeping drug.
- One man tragically died after consuming the potentially contaminated drug.
- The incident is under investigation by Cleveland Police.
Seven people have been hospitalized after taking the sleeping medication Zopiclone, leading to concerns about a potentially contaminated batch. Cleveland Police received reports of adults being taken to North Tees General Hospital in Stockton-on-Tees, County Durham, with one man believed to have died from taking Zopiclone. The police issued a warning about the potential dangers of the contaminated batch, emphasizing the risk of significant illness or overdose. Zopiclone, commonly used to treat severe insomnia, works by triggering a calming chemical in the brain called gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA). The drug, available only by prescription, typically takes about an hour to take effect and helps users fall asleep faster and stay asleep through the night. While usually in tablet form, doctors can also prescribe it in liquid form. However, the NHS advises against consuming alcohol after taking Zopiclone due to the risk of entering a deep sleep state that may be difficult to wake from. Following the incidents, six of the hospitalized individuals have been discharged, while one remains in the hospital for unrelated issues. Cleveland Police are actively investigating the circumstances surrounding the death and the potentially contaminated batch of Zopiclone. They urge anyone with information or concerns about drugs in the community to contact them. Zopiclone was one of the most commonly prescribed sleeping pills in 2023, with NHS data showing its frequent use but cautioning against long-term dependency due to reduced effectiveness over time. The tragic events involving Zopiclone highlight the importance of drug safety and proper usage. The police are working to ensure the community's well-being and are seeking cooperation from the public in their investigation. As the situation unfolds, authorities are emphasizing the risks associated with consuming potentially contaminated medication and the need for vigilance in drug use to prevent adverse effects and harm.