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Related Experiment Videos

A possible suicide by diltiazem overdose

J R Kalin1, K M Wood, A J Lee

  • 1Alabama Department of Forensic Sciences, Birmingham 35205.

Journal of Analytical Toxicology
|May 1, 1994
PubMed
Summary

This case report details a suspected suicide involving diltiazem overdose in a 39-year-old male. Postmortem toxicology confirmed lethal levels of diltiazem and ethanol in blood and urine.

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Area of Science:

  • Forensic Toxicology
  • Cardiology
  • Clinical Pharmacology

Background:

  • A 39-year-old male patient with an unknown cardiac condition was found deceased.
  • The case involved a suspected suicide by intentional drug overdose.

Observation:

  • The deceased was discovered unresponsive in his residence.
  • Postmortem drug screening was conducted on blood and urine samples.

Findings:

  • Blood analysis revealed 6.9 mg/L diltiazem, 0.182 g/100 mL ethanol, and trace propranolol.
  • Urine analysis detected 4.7 mg/L diltiazem and 0.251 g/100 mL ethanol.

Implications:

  • This case highlights the potential for diltiazem (a calcium channel blocker) in intentional overdose scenarios.
  • Toxicology findings underscore the importance of comprehensive drug screening in suspected fatal overdoses.
  • Understanding the pharmacokinetics and toxicology of diltiazem in overdose is crucial for forensic and clinical settings.

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