UK Government Seeks Expert Advice on Monkey Dust Amidst Rising Concerns

The UK government is seeking expert advice on the drug known as "monkey dust," following concerns about its increasing use and the harm it causes to users.

Monkey dust, also known as MDPV, is a synthetic cathinone, which is a type of drug that can produce feelings of euphoria, alertness, and increased energy. However, it can also cause paranoia, delusions, and violent behavior.

The government's Advisory Council on the Misuse of Drugs (ACMD) will be providing advice on the classification of monkey dust and its associated harms. The ACMD is an independent body of experts that provides advice to the government on drug-related issues.

According to the government's latest figures, there were 332 deaths in England and Wales in 2019 where monkey dust was mentioned on the death certificate. This is a significant increase from 6 deaths in 2013.

Monkey dust is primarily used by people who are homeless or experiencing mental health problems. It is often sold in small plastic bags and can be snorted, smoked, injected, or swallowed.

The government has launched a public health campaign to raise awareness about the dangers of monkey dust and is working with local authorities, police, and health services to tackle its use.

Health Minister Jo Churchill said, "The harm that monkey dust can cause is devastating, and we are committed to taking action to tackle its use. We will be seeking expert advice on the classification of this drug to help us ensure we are doing all we can to protect the public from its dangers."

The government has also made a request to the ACMD to consider the harms associated with other synthetic cathinones and how they can be addressed.