Health professionals are being warned to be vigilant, after two deaths this week were linked to a new drug similar to ecstasy.

The incidents took place in Dublin and the South East of the country, but the HSE says a number of other deaths in April are also being investigated.

Gardaí say that these drugs are highly dangerous and they are issuing the warning to avoid any more deaths. 

The State body says these tablets are green in colour with an apple or Rolex symbol on them.

But it is also warning of the dangers of other new stimulants emerging, which are believed to be a combination of cocaine and amphetamines.

Gardaí also say that the onset of the drug is slower than MDNA which means people are known to take more to achieve the same high.

Gardaí want to get the message out ahead of the summer months and upcoming music festivals.

Consultant in Emergency Medicine at Sligo Regional Hospital, Dr Fergal Hickey says these drugs are lethal and one hit could be fatal: