Fatal case of propoxyphene overdose. Morphological and toxicological findings

The pathomorphological and toxicological findings of a case of fatal overdose of propoxyphene are reported. The chemico-toxicological findings revealed the presence of only one active substance that has been administered (in an amount of not less than 1.5 g dextropropoxyphene) in form of an analgesic tablet preparation (marketed under the trade name Dolo-Neurotrat), in which it represents the main active constituent. The most striking histological findings are the changes in the myocardium which are consistent with cardiotoxicity. It is suggested that an estimation of shock duration by means of pathomorphological findings in combination with toxicological and other data be utilised for survival time determination.