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Fatal overdose of olanzepine
1Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Forensic Toxicology Laboratory, Sudbury, MA 01776, USA.
Forensic Science International
|April 8, 1998
Summary
This case study details a suicide involving Zyprexa (olanzapine) overdose. Autopsy analysis revealed high concentrations of olanzapine in blood and gastric contents, indicating significant ingestion.
Area of Science:
- Forensic Toxicology
- Pharmacology
- Analytical Chemistry
Background:
- Olanzapine, an atypical antipsychotic, is prescribed for conditions like schizophrenia and bipolar disorder.
- Intentional self-harm and overdose are significant public health concerns.
- Accurate toxicological analysis is crucial in post-mortem investigations.
Observation:
- A case of suicide involving the ingestion of an unknown quantity of Zyprexa (olanzapine) tablets was examined.
- Biological samples collected during autopsy were subjected to rigorous analysis.
- Advanced analytical techniques, including gas chromatography with a nitrogen-phosphorous detector and gas chromatography/mass spectrometry, were employed.
Findings:
- The post-mortem blood concentration of olanzapine was determined to be 490 micrograms/dl.
- Concentrations of olanzapine in gastric contents were found to be significantly higher, reaching 4100 micrograms/dl.
- These findings confirm substantial olanzapine absorption and distribution in the deceased.
Implications:
- This case highlights the potential lethality of olanzapine overdose in suicide attempts.
- The analytical methods used provide a benchmark for future forensic toxicological assessments of olanzapine.
- Understanding toxicokinetic profiles in overdose scenarios is vital for clinical and forensic interpretation.