COCAINE CUT WITH LEVAMISOLE DANGEROUS

The High Prairie General Investigation Section's Enhanced Drug Unit
reports some cocaine has been cut with levamisole, a chemical that is
a particular health hazard to drug abusers. "In several cases, cocaine
and this chemical were found mixed together," says S/Sgt. Steven
Daley. He also says a drug trafficker normally does not sell pure
cocaine, but cuts or dilutes it with another substance like this.

There have been no reports of deaths in the High Prairie area.
According to a news release issued by Cpl. Blaine Oster of the High
Prairie GIS, seized cocaine sent to the Health Protection Laboratory
in Winnipeg for analysis shows it was laced with levamisole. This
chemical is used to treat intestinal worms in humans and animals, but
when cut with cocaine it can leave the person vulnerable to
infections, which can become serious and even fatal. "Individuals
throughout Alberta have reportedly developed a form of immune system
suppression after consuming cocaine," the news release also says.
Those who use cocaine and develop fever and other signs of infection
should seek medical attention immediately. The British Columbia
Ministry of Healthy Living and Sport issued an advisory Dec. 11,
providing a list of symptoms:

* Persistent or recurrent fever and chills.

* Worsening swollen glands.

* Painful sores in the mouth or around the anus.

* Frequent, persistent or worsening skin infections.

* Pneumonia.

* Worsening or persistent sore throat.

* Thrush - a white coating of the mouth, tongue, or
throat.

* Other unusual infections.

Those who have questions or concerns about a drug abuse problem,
please call AADAC at 780-523-6640. Those who have information about
cocaine or other illicit drugs, please call the RCMP at 780-523-3370
or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).