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The acetaminophen experience in south Florida.

G E Thomas, V J Rao, J H Davis

Journal of Forensic Sciences

|October 1, 1983

Summary

Acetaminophen overdose deaths increased from 1972-1981, linked to increased marketing. This pain reliever may indicate polydrug overdoses, particularly in suicides and accidents.

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Area of Science:

Forensic Toxicology
Clinical Toxicology
Public Health

Background:

Acetaminophen (N-acetyl-p-aminophenol) is a widely used over-the-counter analgesic and antipyretic.
Previous studies have indicated potential toxicity associated with acetaminophen overdose.
Understanding trends in acetaminophen-related fatalities is crucial for public health interventions.

Purpose of the Study:

To analyze toxicology records for cases involving acetaminophen detection between 1972 and 1981.
To identify any demographic trends associated with acetaminophen detection in fatalities.
To investigate the role of acetaminophen in drug overdose deaths, including suicides and accidental cases.

Main Methods:

Retrospective review of toxicology records from the Dade County Medical Examiner Department (1972-1981).
Inclusion criteria: any case with detected acetaminophen, irrespective of the cause of death.
Analysis of demographic data (age, sex, race) and circumstances of death (suicide, accidental, overdose).

Main Results:

Acetaminophen was detected in 95 cases during the study period.
No significant trends were observed regarding age, sex, or race in these cases.
A notable proportion (approximately two-thirds) of cases involved suicides or accidental deaths; 40 cases were directly linked to polydrug overdoses.

Conclusions:

Acetaminophen detection in toxicology cases showed an increasing trend during the study period, potentially linked to increased product marketing.
Acetaminophen may serve as a valuable indicator for identifying polydrug overdoses.
Further research into the specific mechanisms and contributing factors of acetaminophen-related fatalities is warranted.

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