Three people have died in Bedfordshire after taking an ecstasy-like drug called PMA and public health officials are warning people of the dangers.
PMA (paramethoxyamphetamine) is a Class-A drug which is chemically similar to ecstasy but much stronger - potentially five to ten times as toxic.
The effects of PMA are also comparable to ecstasy but users may take longer to feel them, sometimes up to an hour.
This may result in them taking another pill in the mistaken belief that the first one has not worked, leading to a potentially dangerous or fatal dose.
Councillor Mohammed Ashraf, portfolio holder for public health, said: “It is vitally important that you get help if you begin to feel unwell after taking drugs. If you are out with your friends make sure to look after each other.”
Over the last two years the number of deaths linked to the drug has risen dramatically.
A recent BBC investigation found that in 2011 one death was linked to PMA but this year there have already been 23 deaths linked to the drug and this number is expected to rise.
The drug is usually sold in pill form, sometimes stamped with a crown, or ‘M’ and they are usually pink, hence the name ‘Pink Ecstasy’. It can also be sold as a powder.
The drug may come in other colours or with different stamps though, so it is advised that anyone taking drugs exercise caution regardless.
Health officials have issued the following advice:
* If you are in a nightclub and you or a friend starts to feel ill, contact a member of security or a bar employee who will be able to help
* If you or a friend takes an illegal drug and become unwell call 999 immediately.
* Beware of overdosing by taking one drug after another – particularly as you don’t know the strength of the pills you are taking.
* If you need more help or information about PMA or other illegal drugs, please call 01582 439480 if you live in Luton, 01234 352220 if you live in Bedford or 01582 501780 if you live in Dunstable.