A new website aimed at clubbers who take drugs tells first-time users to consider taking half a pill rather than a whole one, and tells them how to avoid nasal damage if snorting cocaine.
Detailed information on the physical and psychological effects and potential side effects of a range of drugs, as well as advice on safer use, is included on the website, www.clubscene.ie.
The website's creators insist it neither condemns nor condones drug use and that the information is designed to help drug-users make informed decisions.
However, the site may attract criticism similar to that faced by UCD students' union six years ago when it advised first-time users of ecstasy to take only half a tablet. This advice in a campus ecstasy information campaign was criticised by the National Parents' Council for legitimising use of the drug.
The clubscene website has been created by Merchant's Quay Ireland, an experienced voluntary organisation working with drug users in Dublin which consistently advocates harm reduction measures.
Its director of services, Mr Tony Geoghegan, said the website was developed because there was little accurate independent information for dance drug-users who are interested in harm reduction.
The site includes guidelines for people caring for users experiencing a "bad trip" as well as legal and practical information for pub and club owners.
