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Drowning due to cyclobenzaprine and ethanol
Forensic Science International
|June 5, 1999
Summary
A 35-year-old female died from a fatal combination of high blood alcohol and cyclobenzaprine (Flexeril) levels. Autopsy results were unremarkable, with toxicology confirming the lethal drug and ethanol concentrations.
Area of Science:
- Forensic Toxicology
- Clinical Toxicology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Investigating the toxicological profile of drug interactions in post-mortem cases.
- Understanding the lethal potential of combined ethanol and cyclobenzaprine (Flexeril) ingestion.
- Evaluating the significance of unremarkable autopsy findings in suspected overdose fatalities.
Observation:
- A 35-year-old female was discovered deceased in a bathtub with her head submerged.
- Autopsy examination revealed no significant pathological findings.
- Toxicological analysis detected elevated levels of ethanol (215 mg/dL) and cyclobenzaprine (1.786 mg/L) in blood samples.
Findings:
- The combined presence of high blood alcohol and cyclobenzaprine concentrations was determined to be the cause of death.
- Cyclobenzaprine, a muscle relaxant, at 1.786 mg/L, proved fatal in conjunction with ethanol.
- The synergistic effect of ethanol and cyclobenzaprine led to a fatal outcome.
Implications:
- Highlights the critical role of comprehensive toxicological screening in unexplained deaths.
- Underscores the dangers of combining alcohol with prescription muscle relaxants like cyclobenzaprine.
- Emphasizes the need for patient education regarding the risks associated with polydrug use and central nervous system depressants.
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