THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: “Next time your child insists on that flavoured candy sold near the school, beware! The candy Strawberry Quick contains the deadly drug Methamphetamine.
“The new ecstasy drug permissible in the US has become common among school students in Mumbai, Bengaluru and other metros. Unsuspecting children are told the candy could improve concentration and alertness in studies. Gradually, the students become addicted to it.
An overdose leads to mood swings, behavioural changes, cardiac arrest and psychological problems,” said Arun B Nair, assistant professor, Thiruvananthapuram Medical College Hospital.
Last month, many schools in Bengaluru issued circulars warning against the drug after some students were taken to hospitals in serious a condition.
S Anija, mother of a Bengaluru school student, said it was time schools in Kerala became aware of this drug and issued a warnings. She said several Bengaluru school students have already become addicts.
Rajan K Varughese, principal of St Thomas Residential School, said: “As a preventive measure, we will educate the students.”
“This is a serious issue. I will give necessary instructions to the respective district police chiefs to keep a check on this drug. They will also be directed to inform the schools,”said Kerala Police chief Loknath Behera.