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Three cases of fatal paramethoxyamphetamine overdose.
1Centre of Forensic Sciences, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
Journal of Analytical Toxicology
|October 16, 2001
Summary
Paramethoxyamphetamine (PMA) caused fatalities in young adults who believed they were taking MDMA or MDA. Blood analysis revealed significant PMA concentrations, with potential postmortem redistribution.
Area of Science:
- Forensic Toxicology
- Analytical Chemistry
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Paramethoxyamphetamine (PMA) is a dangerous methoxylated phenylethylamine derivative.
- PMA ingestion has been associated with fatalities, particularly among young adults.
- Previous fatal PMA case in the province occurred in 1985.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe and compare recent fatal PMA cases with a historical case.
- To quantify PMA concentrations in blood samples from deceased individuals.
- To investigate potential postmortem redistribution of PMA.
Main Methods:
- Case study analysis of three fatal incidents involving suspected PMA ingestion.
- Gas chromatography with a nitrogen-phosphorus detector for PMA quantification.
- Analysis of peripheral, heart, and femoral blood samples.
Main Results:
- Two recent cases involved individuals aged 18-19 who ingested substances presumed to be MDMA or MDA.
- PMA concentrations in recent cases were 0.6-1.3 mg/L (peripheral blood) and 0.7-2.3 mg/L (heart blood).
- Significant differences between heart and peripheral blood PMA levels were noted in two cases, suggesting postmortem redistribution.
Conclusions:
- PMA is a lethal substance that may be misidentified as MDMA or MDA by users.
- Accurate toxicological analysis is crucial for identifying PMA in postmortem investigations.
- Observed blood concentration differences highlight the importance of considering postmortem redistribution in interpreting toxicology results.