Two men have suffered life-threatening reactions to illicit drugs they mistakenly believed was ecstasy, prompting WA Police and health authorities to issue a warning.
The pair, in their 20s, received emergency treatment after inhaling a combination of powdered substances, which they mistakenly believed was ecstasy, while a third man was assessed and later discharged.
ChemCentre analysts identified two psychoactive substances new to Australia - fluoro-amphetamine and 25C-NBOMe (commonly known as N-Bomb).
Director of forensic science Colin Priddis said ChemCentre continues to see synthetic drugs new to Australia coming through its laboratory.
"That means more than ever that people don't know what drug or drug combination they're consuming nor how their body will react, and the incidents over Christmas demonstrate the dire circumstances that can eventuate," he said.
Detective Senior Sergeant Ian Thompson said it was a timely reminder ahead of social events over summer.
"There is always risk associated with consuming illicit drugs because the manufacturers are only interested in profits, rather than the welfare of consumers," he said.
Police are investigating the source of the drugs and urge anyone with information relating to illicit drug dealing to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
- AAP