Deaths from drug abuse in northwestern Spain, 1992 - 97

A total of 338 cases of death from acute reactions to drugs in Galicia (NW Spain) from 1 June 1992 to 31 July 1997 were examined. The average annual mortality rate was close to 70 cases. Male victims (90%) prevailed over female ones, the average age at death being 28.8 years. Most of the victims were habitual users who died in their own homes (40%) or nearby (30%). Polydrug use was the most common pattern, the most frequently detected drugs being opioids (281 cases), followed by alcohol (128 cases), benzodiazepines (92 cases) and cocaine (75 cases). Although the intravenous route prevailed (91%), oral and inhalation consumption of the drugs were also significant--the latter has grown significantly in recent times in relation to opioids and other drugs. How accurate the certificate of death can be depends on how thorough the investigation at the crime scene, autopsy room and laboratory are, as well as appropriate knowledge of the individual's history. The coordinated action of different health care institutions and use of available resources are crucial with a view to obtaining such data.