A TEENAGE boy has been arrested after 20 Salisbury school children took the dangerous prescription drug Xanax.

A 15-year-old local boy was arrested on suspicion of supplying class C drugs and taken to Melksham Police Station for interview.

He was later released under investigation.

It comes as 20 youngsters aged 15 to 16 needed medical treatment over the past week after taking the drug in Salisbury.

The police said the children involved attended a number of schools but would not confirm which.

Police said Xanax should only be prescribed by a doctor for anxiety disorders and taking it without a prescription was dangerous.

It can cause heart and breathing problems, slow down reactions and can make a person feel drowsy, lethargic and forgetful, police said.

These drugs can also lead to problems concentrating, headaches, vertigo and are very addictive, according to officers.

When taken with or even without alcohol they can slow the heart rate down to dangerous levels.

Inspector Pete Sparrow of Salisbury Police said: “This drug is reported to be as addictive as heroin and been linked to placing users at risk of significant harm and vulnerability.

"It is being sold through illegitimate sources at very low prices, making this attractive to young impressionable children.

"As a parent myself, I think it is my duty to talk to my children on this subject and alert them to the risks and consequences.”

If you need advice relating to Xanax or any other substances contact Motiv8 on 0800 169 6136 or email info@dhimotiv8.org.uk.

Anyone with information regarding the supply of Xanax to young people in Salisbury is asked to contact Salisbury CID on 101. Or call Crimestoppers 0800 555 111 where details may be left anonymously if preferred.