13 December 2006

Decision On Party Pills Should Be Easy

It is to be hoped that common sense prevails with the Cabinet committee reviewing the future of party pills says New Zealand First’s health spokesperson Barbara Stewart.

“New Zealand First has always held the view that party pills are unsafe and their use should be banned.

“Emergency department doctors have reported patients with symptoms such as anxiety, panic attacks, elevated heart rates, hallucinations, headaches and vomiting and even convulsions from pills which are presumed safe because they are readily available legally.

“There is also a risk to brain development to teenagers under 18 who are most likely to take more pills than recommended and mix them with alcohol.

“Teenagers in this country already have more than enough access to mood altering substances. They don’t need party pills as well – especially since no reputable research has been carried out into their safety and the long-term effects are unknown.

“Banning the sale of party pills is definitely the way to go," said Mrs Stewart.

ENDS

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