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Suicide by buflomedil HCl: a case report
Carla Neri1, Mattia Barbareschi, Stefania Turrina
1Department of Medicine and Public Health, University of Verona, Institute of Forensic Medicine--Policlinico G.B. Rossi, P. le L.A. Scuro 1, 37134 Verona, Italy. carla.neri@univr.it
Journal of Clinical Forensic Medicine
|July 21, 2004
Summary
A man died with buflomedil HCl, a vasodilator, in his system at 20 times therapeutic levels. This case highlights potential buflomedil toxicity risks.
Area of Science:
- Toxicology
- Pharmacology
- Forensic Science
Background:
- Buflomedil hydrochloride (HCl) is a vasodilator medication marketed in Italy under the trade name Loftyl Plus.
- Vasodilators are commonly prescribed to manage circulatory conditions.
Observation:
- A deceased male was discovered in his residence with Loftyl Plus packaging nearby.
- Autopsy blood analysis was performed to investigate the cause of death.
Findings:
- Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC/MS) detected buflomedil HCl in the patient's blood.
- The measured buflomedil HCl concentration was approximately 20 times higher than established therapeutic values.
Implications:
- This case suggests a potential link between extremely high buflomedil HCl levels and fatal outcomes.
- It underscores the importance of therapeutic drug monitoring and adherence to prescribed dosages.
- Further investigation into buflomedil's toxicity profile at supra-therapeutic concentrations is warranted.