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Meptazinol and ethanol: a fatal intoxication

Peter D Maskell1, Giorgia De Paoli, L Nitin Seetohul

  • 1Centre for Forensic and Legal Medicine, University of Dundee, Dundee, Scotland, United Kingdom. p.d.maskell@dundee.ac.uk

Journal of Analytical Toxicology
|February 1, 2012
PubMed

Insights

This case report details a fatal meptazinol and alcohol overdose in a 57-year-old male with pre-existing heart and liver disease. The combined toxicity of these substances was identified as the cause of death.

Area of Science:

  • Forensic Toxicology
  • Clinical Pharmacology

Background:

  • Meptazinol is an analgesic used for mild to moderate pain.
  • Concurrent alcohol use can potentiate drug effects.
  • Pre-existing cardiovascular and hepatic conditions may increase risk.

Observation:

  • A 57-year-old male with heart disease and alcoholic liver disease was found deceased.
  • Empty meptazinol packaging was present; drug screening detected meptazinol and ethanol.

Findings:

  • High concentrations of meptazinol were quantified in blood, urine, and stomach contents.
  • Significant blood alcohol levels were also detected.
  • Death was attributed to combined meptazinol and ethanol toxicity.

Implications:

  • Highlights the potential dangers of combining meptazinol with alcohol, especially in individuals with pre-existing comorbidities.
  • Underscores the importance of comprehensive toxicological analysis in post-mortem investigations.
  • Informs clinical practice regarding patient counseling on alcohol-drug interactions.

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