Police have issued a drug alert after it was revealed children in Weymouth have been taking a highly addictive substance.

Dorset Police have moved to warn parents after officers have discovered young people are getting hold of the Class C drug Xanax for recreational use.

Children are purchasing the tranquillizer either on the internet or via private prescription. A police investigation into how exactly it is being obtained is ongoing.

Parents are being urged to look out for any changes in their child’s behaviour in case they are using the drug.

Xanax is a brand name for the drug alprazolam, which belongs to a group of drugs called benzodiazepines. It is used to treat anxiety, but higher doses can cause feelings of drunkenness. Xanax is a Class C drug and can be highly addictive.

A spokesman for Dorset Police said: “Over the last few weeks we have become increasingly aware of the use of Xanax by some of the younger people in Weymouth.

“Xanax is a mild tranquillizer which is used to treat anxiety and comes in tablet form. When taken in higher doses it has been reported as giving a feeling of drunkenness.

“We would ask parents to be on the look out for changes to their children’s behaviour or any tablets that they may be found in possession of.

“We are working hard to protect young people in Weymouth. There are a number of lines of enquiry into the supply of Xanax which we are currently following up on.”

Local GP Jon Orrell said the drug’s strength cannot be certain if bought on the internet and problems can occur if it’s used regularly.

He explained: “This drug is like Diazepam (valium). The class of benzodiazepines are used for its short term calming effect, so it can be useful before a plane flight or trip to the dentist. They are fairly safe in overdose, however, problems can occur if used regularly for several weeks. Then the body can become dependent with physical withdrawal symptoms when suddenly stopping, the worst bringing on fits.”

Dr Orrell added: “Generally, it is a problem buying such drugs on the internet as the strength and purity cannot be certain.”

Cllr Tia Roos, who represents the Melcombe Regis ward, said: “If children are taking it recreationally they need to ask themselves why and do they need support.

“Children will experiment because they’re naturally curious, but it’s when it becomes a long-term habit that it becomes dangerous and parents need to watch out for this.”

If you have any information regarding children taking drugs contact Dorset Police on 101 or report anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.