Over 370 people die every year from drug overdoses in Ireland, the HSE has said.

It has launched new overdose awareness resources to mark International Overdose Awareness Day (IOAD) (August 31). This annual event commemorates those who have died or suffered permanent injuries as a result of an overdose.

IOAD also aims to create better understanding of overdose and reduce the stigma of drug-related deaths.

"The high number of deaths arising due to drug overdose every year highlights just how important a health-led approach to drug misuse is, that treats the use of substances as a public health issue, rather than solely as a criminal issue, so that we can better help individuals, families and communities," commented Junior Minister Frank Feighan, who has responsibility for the National Drugs Strategy.

He said that overdose-related deaths can cause devastation for the families and communities left behind. However he insisted that such deaths can be prevented "through effective public health intervention and through harm-reduction measures targeted at high-risk groups".

This year, the HSE is using IOAD to highlight the emergency of ‘new' or ‘fake' benzodiazepines.

Benzodiazepines are sedatives that can only be obtained with a prescription. They are often prescribed to encourage sleep or reduce stress and anxiety.

"This year, we particularly want to highlight the emergence of ‘new' or ‘fake' benzodiazepines both across Europe and here in Ireland. These emerging drugs carry significant risks in terms of contamination and overdose.
"We have developed new resources which we are launching to inform and advise people on the risks associated with these drugs and I encourage people to share widely with services, family members and those at risk," commented the HSE's clinical lead for addiction services, Dr Eamon Keenan.

The new HSE resources can be viewed at drugs.ie/newbenzos and drugs.ie/knowthesigns.

For more information on support services, contact the HSE's alcohol and drugs helpline on 1800 459 459, Monday to Friday, from 9.30am to 5.30pm, or email helpline@hse.ie.