ISSN: 0022-1198
CODEN: JFSCA
Page Count: 2

Case Report: Distribution of Methamphetamine in a Massive Fatal Ingestion
Logan, BK
University of Washington, WA

Weiss, EL
University of Washington, WA

Harruff, RC
King County Medical Examiners Office, Harborview Medical Center, WA

(Received 8 May 1995; accepted 20 July 1995)

Abstract

A subject who apparently swallowed a baggie containing “crank” (methamphetamine) while being arrested, was admitted to hospital and then experienced a massive overdose of the drug. The subject went through a seizure with associated fixed dilated pupils, and a depressed pulse and blood pressure. His cardiac and respiratory problems could not be stabilized, and he died. Methamphetamine levels in central and peripheral blood, liver, bile, vitreous, gastric and urine were determined. Blood levels of greater than 60 mg/L, were found together with even higher levels in the bile, urine and gastric. These levels are discussed in terms of other fatal, non-fatal and recreational methamphetamine use.

Keywords:
forensic science, forensic toxicology, substance abuse, methamphetamine, intoxication, overdose, driving while intoxicated

Paper ID: JFS15437J
DOI: 10.1520/JFS15437J
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