WATCH: Toronto police are warning the public about the dangers of getting high off drugs bought off the internet.
TORONTO – Toronto police have issued a public safety alert on the risks of using “research drugs” purchased over the internet after two men were hospitalized from accidental overdoses.
“We believe the two victims who purchased the drugs believed it would mimic cocaine and ecstasy,” said Toronto police Inspector Howie Page during a press conference on Friday.
Police say the two individuals in their early 20s bought the drugs from a company in Ontario and suffered serious injuries as a result of its use.
“Fortunately, because of the expertise of the paramedics and the staff at the local hospital, they were able to save their lives,” said Insp. Page.
Police say the drugs purchased were ethylphenidate and methylbenzylpiperazine.
WATCH: Toronto police Inspector Howie Page warns the public on the risks associated with using drugs or chemical compounds intended for scientific research.
“Consumers have no way of knowing if the substances received is what it is supposed to be,” said Insp. Page. “There’s no way of knowing the concentration or purity of the drug.”
Police have not released the name of the company the drugs were purchased from but an investigation is underway to determine if criminal charges can be laid.
Authorities are reminding the public that research drugs are not for human consumption.
“The internet certainly changing the game a little bit,” Insp. Page said. “We don’t want a death or any form of illness to our young people.”
Anyone with information pertaining to chemical drugs or research drugs being sold over the internet are asked to contact police.
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