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Updated: Aug 13, 2026

Behavioral Characterization of Pentylenetetrazole-induced Seizures: Moving Beyond the Racine Scale
Published on: July 8, 2025
[Multiple abscesses induced by self injection of zolpidem]
Y Scrivener1, S Maradeix, H Konaré
1Clinique Dermatologique, Hôpitaux Universitaires de Strasbourg. Jean-Nicolas.Scrivener@chru-strasbourg.fr
Background:
Zolpidem, a hypnotic drug, is occasionally taken in high doses by some drug addicts for its hallucinogenic properties.
Case Report:
We report the original observation of a young female addict who developed aseptic cutaneous abscesses on the forearms and feet induced by self injection of powdered zolpidem. Histopathological analysis revealed birefringent vegetal structures.
Discussion:
The shape and size of the birefringent structures are those of microcrystalline cellulose, an excipient used in zolpidem pills. The same structures have been identified by microscopic examination of a zolpidem tablet dissolved in water.
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