FOUR people were admitted to accident and emergency at St Mary's Hospital in a serious condition last night (Tuesday) after taking un-prescribed drugs and two are now in intensive care.

The Isle of Wight NHS Trust is warning Islanders about the danger of taking medicine that has not been prescribed to them.

The medicine was thought to contain diazepam and tramadol.

Alistair Flowerdew, medical director at Isle of Wight NHS Trust, said: “We would strongly urge Islanders not to take medicine from unknown sources and only take medicine that has been prescribed for them.

"Taking medication that is unknown and un-prescribed can cause serious health concerns as we have seen today.

"This action by a few individuals has placed additional pressures on our services.

"Ensuring our patients receive safe care is our absolute priority and for this reason a number of our patients may need to be transferred to the mainland because our intensive care unit is full.

"Anyone offered drugs from an unknown source should report this to the police on 101 immediately.

"Anyone concerned about substance misuse can find out more at the Talk to Frank website at www.talktofrank.com or by telephoning their helpline on 0300 123 6600.

"Anyone holding unwanted or surplus drugs should return them to their local pharmacy."