Three fatal intoxications due to methylone

Area of Science:

• Forensic Toxicology
• Analytical Chemistry
• Pharmacology

Background:

• Methylone is a synthetic cathinone derivative with stimulant properties.
• Understanding the toxicological profile of novel psychoactive substances is crucial for public health.
• Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) is a standard method for identifying and quantifying drugs in biological samples.

Observation:

• Three fatalities were associated with methylone intoxication.
• Clinical manifestations included seizure-like activity and severe hyperthermia (up to 107°F).
• Two cases presented with metabolic acidosis, and one exhibited symptoms of sympathomimetic toxicity.

Findings:

• Peripheral blood methylone concentrations in fatal cases ranged from 0.56 to 3.3 mg/L.
• GC-MS analysis, including derivatization, confirmed methylone presence and concentration.
• Laboratory findings in a prolonged case indicated multi-organ dysfunction.

Implications:

• Peripheral blood methylone levels exceeding 0.5 mg/L may indicate a lethal concentration.
• Methylone toxicity can mimic sympathomimetic overdose, presenting with hyperthermia and acidosis.
• These findings highlight the potential dangers of methylone and the need for robust toxicological screening.