A MAN has died in hospital after it is believed he consumed a legal high.

The 23-year-old, of Swindon, was rushed to the Great Western Hospital yesterday after it is believed he consumed a small green pill with a dollar sign on it.

Tests have now concluded on a tablet, which was first thought to be a contaminated illegal drug, and the substance has been confirmed as Alpha-methyltriptamine - known as AMT, which is a legal high.

Head of Swindon CID, Detective Inspector Lisa Clarke, said: “This man was taken to hospital in an extremely serious condition after it is thought he took one of these pills and sadly passed away this afternoon.

"Even though these drugs might not be illegal, it is still very difficult to know exactly what is in them and the affect they might have on an individual. Legal doesn’t mean safe.

"This man's health declined very rapidly.

"I would urge everyone to steer clear of illegal drugs of every variety and legal highs as the associated risks simply are not fully known.

“If anyone has taken this drug in the last few days, we would urge that you seek immediate medical attention and anyone with information as to where it is being sold should contact us straight away. All information will be treated in the strictest confidence.”

Swindon Advertiser: The green tablet with a $ sign on it that was taken by a 23-year-old Swindon man who is now fighting for his life.

  • Above, a picture of the tablet taken by the 23-year-old

Anyone with information is asked to contact Wiltshire Police on 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800 111 555 where information can be left anonymously.