The HSE has issued a health alert about stimulants which have been linked to the deaths of two people in the last four days.
It said it believed the deaths, which are being investigated, had been as a result of the ingestion of “an ecstasy-like” substance.
The HSE said the stimulants had also been implicated in a number of other deaths and hospitalisations in the last four weeks.
It said green pills with an apple or Rolex symbol appeared to be implicated in some of the incidents.
“While investigations are ongoing into these cases, it is believed that they are as a result of the ingestion of an ecstasy like substance,” a HSE spokesperson said.
“Green Apple and Green Rolex (green pills with an apple or rolex symbol) appear have to been implicated in some of these incidents. Other stimulants indicated include cocaine, and amphetamines which in some circumstances have been taken in combination. Therefore, those who take drugs should be specifically warned of potential dangers linked to these substances or using drugs in combinations.”
The spokesperson said that the physical signs that have presented are severe agitation, extremely rapid heart rate and extremely high temperature.
“There is sufficient evidence available to recommend that people do not take these substances or if their friends are in possession of these that they should not be consumed.”
Professor Joe Barry of the Trinity College Department of Public Health said the deaths were scattered across the country and had no geographical link.
He said it can be difficult to determine the immediate cause of death if a person has taken a number of substances.
“The type of drug that may have caused the deaths is lethal and people became ill very quickly. A pattern emerged when people presented with similar physical and clinical reactions that led to death in a few cases,” said Prof Barry.
He added that the HSE had to issue the warning because a wider spectrum of society take stimulant-type drugs compared to other substances.
Last week a number of UCD students were hospitalised after consuming a drug containing a mixture of LSD and metamphetamine which causes extreme and erratic behaviour, but were later released.
Health professionals are reminded to be vigilant and the public are advised that taking drugs carries serious health risks.
For support around drug and alcohol use the HSE Drugs & Alcohol Helpline is available Monday to Friday, 9.30am and 5.30pm. This confidential service has both a freephone Helpline (1800 459 459) and an email support service (helpline@hse.ie).