POLICE have warned people of the dangers of taking medication not prescribed to them following two deaths.
The deaths in the Sunderland area appear to be linked to liquid morphine - an opiate drug used for to manage severe pain.
Northumbria Police said, it was believed both of the people had taken Oramorph shortly before they died on Tuesday March 7 and last Saturday.
The outcome of post-mortem examinations and toxicology results are awaited.
Detective Inspector Dave Cole said: "The death investigations have now been passed to the coroner who will establish the cause of death.
“However as a precaution we want to remind people of the dangers of taking medication that is not prescribed to them.
"The side effects of taking medication that is not prescribed to them can be incredibly harmful and even fatal."
For free professional advice around drugs ring Frank on 0800 77 66 00.
Information about the supply of drugs can be reported to Northumbria Police on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
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