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- Title
A Multi-Drug Intoxication Fatality Involving Xyrem<sup>®</sup> (GHB).
- Authors
Akins, Brianne E.; Miranda, Estuardo; Matthew Lacy, J.; Logan, Barry K.
- Abstract
Gamma-hydroxybutyrate (GHB) is best known as a recreational depressant drug, whose use has also been implicated in drug facilitated sexual assault cases. It is also available as a therapeutic agent (Xyrem®) used for the treatment of daytime sleepiness or cataplexy associated with narcolepsy. This is a report of a case of a 53-year-old woman undergoing treatment with Xyrem® for narcolepsy. The decedent was also prescribed tramadol, gabapentin, cetirizine, modafinil, carisoprodol, and Xyrem®. Toxicological analysis of the blood revealed GHB 165.6 mg/L, and 90.7 mg/L in the urine. Blood GHB concentrations in the range 156–260 mg/L have been reported to induce moderately sound sleep. The combined use of central nervous system depressant drugs, together with her problematic sleep apnea, and snoring (both contraindications for GHB use) were determined to have caused this subject’s death. The manner of death was determined to be accidental.
- Subjects
ALCOHOLISM; GAMMA-hydroxybutyrate; RAPE; THERAPEUTICS; SLEEP disorders; CARISOPRODOL; TOXICOLOGY; NARCOLEPSY; OLDER women
- Publication
Journal of Forensic Sciences, 2009, Vol 54, Issue 2, p495
- ISSN
0022-1198
- Publication type
Article
- DOI
10.1111/j.1556-4029.2008.00965.x