The warning comes after the death of a man and several others taking ill in the city.

Three incidents, in the city centre and West End have been reported, which are understood to be drug-related

A 52 year-old man died in one of the incidents.

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Warnings have been issued through drug services in the city, with staff informed that people have become seriously ill after smoking crack or freebase cocaine.

The reason is not known, but it has been noted it could be very strong or cut with a dangerous substance.

The exact cause of the death and the hospitalisations have not been confirmed, but the Glasgow Times understands drugs are involved.

A spokesperson for NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde said: “Due to patient confidentiality, we cannot comment on individual cases.

“A warning has been issued to drug users and relevant services regarding the use of crack cocaine, via inhalation.

“Overdoses can take place when this drug is very strong or cut with something dangerous. They can also be linked to taking other drugs.

“Drug users are urged to follow public health advice. There is support available to people in Greater Glasgow and Clyde who use drugs including the Glasgow Alcohol and Drug Recovery Service and other partners.”

There have been concerns in the city over nitazines, which can be used in the cutting of drugs like heroin and cocaine.

The substance is a synthetic opioid which the NHS has warned can lead to “overdose, hospitalisation and death.”

Health services are currently investigating the changes in drug use to ensure they provide users with accurate information.

A spokesperson for the Glasgow City Alcohol and Drug Partnership (ADP) said: “We continue to work very closely with partners in the NHS and Police Scotland to gather intelligence and monitor emerging local trends in drug use.

“This ensures we can provide our front-facing services with accurate, up to date information to allow them to continue supporting those most at risk of drug harms.”

NHSGGC has issued Public Health advice to drug users

If you are smoking crack cocaine or freebase:

  • Don’t use when you are alone – be with someone who can help.
  • Take a small amount first – test the strength.
  • Avoid plastic or homemade pipes – use a glass stem if available.
  • Avoid taking with other drugs – this increases the overdose risk.
  • Watch out for unusual taste, colour, or effects – stop if it feels wrong.
  • Always have naloxone available – Naloxone doesn’t work on crack alone, but it will if opioids are involved — sometimes these are present without the person knowing.
  • Call 999 right away if someone feels unwell (collapse, chest pain, breathing problems, seizures). Stay with them until help comes.