A deadly batch of pills linked to eight deaths in Northern Ireland contain highly toxic chemicals that kill users by overheating their bodies, the PSNI has warned.
Police said forensic analysis has confirmed that the pills known as 'Green Rolexes' contain substances PMA and PMMA.
Detective Inspector Andy Dunlop said the combination of the MDMA normally found in ecstasy and PMA can be particularly hazardous to health and has been linked with numerous deaths worldwide.
"PMMA (para-methoxymeth amphetamine) is particularly toxic. Both dealers and users may be unaware that what they believe to be ecstasy, actually contains PMMA," he said.
"PMMA pills are slower to take effect. This may cause the user to take more – which can lead to seizures, convulsions, heart attack and ultimately death.
"The predominant symptom of fatalities around the globe has been hyperthermia – overheating of the body."
Seven people from east and south Belfast and one from Coleraine are all suspected to have died after taking Green Rolexes, which bear a crown or castle logo.
Source: Steven Alexander, Belfast Telegraph, 04/07/13
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