A young father died after taking a performance-enhancing drug used for bodybuilding – which he bought at a gym.
Sean Cleathero, 28, is believed to have taken the substance 2, 4-Dinitrophenol (DNP) which he got from his local gym.
The father-of-one was taken ill and died at hospital in High Wycombe, Bucks., on October 17.
Thames Valley Police warned anyone who has bought DNP tablets from unofficial sources not to take them.
Tragic Sean’s family, from High Wycombe, Bucks., paid tribute to a “fun, loving and caring” man and said they were in “complete shock” at his death.
They said in a statement: “Sean was very loved and popular. His death has come as a complete shock to his family and friends.
“He was a fun, loving, caring son, grandson, brother and nephew.
“As a father he leaves behind a three-year-old daughter who will carry on his infectious personality which made him so popular to all of his friends and those who knew him.”
A post-mortem examination carried out on Friday was inconclusive and the Buckinghamshire Coroner referred Sean’s death to Thames Valley Police who are now investigating.
A police spokesman said: “It is believed he may have taken a substance called 2, 4-Dinitrophenol, which is believed to be a performance-enhancing drug which he got from a local gym.
“The investigation into the cause of death continues and further tests are required.
“Police are currently exploring any potential link between the drug and the man’s death but while the investigation progresses is advising anyone who may have bought DNP tablets through unofficial sources, not to take them.”
DNP is used to help burn fat but can have side effects such as extreme body temperatures leading to brain damage and blindness.
