Plan to cut heroin deaths on Island

Local users receive safety training

Health officials have embarked on a plan to reduce the number of opiate-related deaths in the Isle of Man.

Thirty-two local users of heroin, methadone and morphine - along with relatives and friends - have been trained in the use of the emergency antidote naloxone.

The initiative's being led by the Drug and Alcohol Team.

The medicine reverses life-threatening side effects of hard drugs such as breathing difficulties.

The Take Home Naloxone programme also aims to educate users about preventing overdoses, identifying signs and symptoms, and performing basic life support.