A 15-year-old boy and a 14-year-old boy from were taken to hospital after they used Xanax.

One of the boys became ill at home while the 14-year-old boy collapsed at a youth club after taking the drug. Both boys are from Potters Bar.

Xanax is a prescription only medicine called Alprazolam, prescribed for anxiety and panic attacks, however it is not available over the counter in this country.

On May 8, a 25-year-old man was arrested for being unfit to drive after he was believed to be under the influence of Xanax when he crashed his moped into a vehicle in Shenley Road, Borehamwood.

He is currently under investigation.

A 21-year-old man has pleaded guilty to possession of Xanax.

Jordan Ricketts of Wayside in Potters Bar was arrested and charged in connection with possession of Xanax and cannabis.

He pleaded guilty at court yesterday (Tuesday) and was given a £120 fine and ordered to pay £85 costs.

The drugs were confiscated.

Hertsmere neighbourhood inspector Pete Edwards is warning young people of the dangers of using the drug.

He said: “Although it is not believed to be a widespread problem at the moment, there have been a few isolated reports of suspected Xanax use recently in Potters Bar.

"There are reports of possibly an two other young people who have received treatment after being in contact with the drug in the town.

"We are working with parents and schools to try and make sure no other children suffer the effects of the anti-depressant, which is illegal to buy in this country.

“The drug is debilitating, making the user sleepy with zombie-like effects or blackouts, making young people even more vulnerable.

"Please talk to your children about drugs and call us on 101 if you have any information about who may be supplying these drugs.”