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Fatal poisoning by cyclic antidepressants.
1Institute of Forensic Chemistry, University of Copenhagen, Denmark.
Pharmacopsychiatry
|January 1, 1990
Summary
Fatal poisonings from cyclic antidepressants, particularly amitriptyline, increased from 1979-1985. This rise was primarily observed in men, with most cases being suicides.
Area of Science:
- Forensic Chemistry
- Toxicology
- Public Health
Background:
- Cyclic antidepressants are a common cause of poisoning.
- Monitoring trends in fatal poisonings is crucial for public health interventions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze trends in fatal cyclic antidepressant poisonings over a seven-year period.
- To identify demographic patterns and common circumstances associated with these fatalities.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of 151 fatal poisoning cases registered at the Institute of Forensic Chemistry in Copenhagen between 1979 and 1985.
- Data collection included drug identification, demographic information, and manner of death.
- Case histories were reviewed for contributing factors such as alcohol abuse.
Main Results:
- A significant increase in fatal cyclic antidepressant poisonings was observed during the study period, outpacing the overall rise in fatal poisonings.
- Amitriptyline was the most frequently identified cyclic antidepressant.
- Fatalities predominantly occurred in males, particularly in the 30-39 and 40-49 age groups, with suicides accounting for the majority of cases (121/151).
- Alcohol abuse was noted in 76% of accidental poisoning cases.
Conclusions:
- Cyclic antidepressant poisonings, especially involving amitriptyline, represent a growing public health concern.
- Targeted prevention strategies may be needed, particularly for male populations and in conjunction with alcohol use.
- The study highlights the importance of forensic chemistry data in tracking and understanding poisoning trends.