Journal Published Online: 01 March 1987
Volume 32, Issue 2

Analysis of 2-Hydroxyimipramine in an Imipramine-Related Fatality

CODEN: JFSCAS

Abstract

A fatality following ingestion of the tricyclic antidepressant imipramine (Novopramine®), acetaminophen, and ethyl alcohol is described. Imipramine, desipramine, acetaminophen, and 2-hydroxyimipramine were quantitated by high performance liquid chromatography, and ethyl alcohol by gas liquid chromatography. Concentrations of imipramine, desipramine, 2-hydroxyimipramine, and acetaminophen were: in blood—9.0, 1.1, 3.9, and 11 mg/L; in urine—92, 14, and 42 mg/L (acetaminophen not quantitated in urine). Ethyl alcohol concentration in blood was <10 mg/dL and 105 mg/dL in the urine by headspace gas chromatography. These findings are compared to previous reports of imipramine-related fatalities. To our knowledge, this is the first fatality reported involving imipramine where analysis included quantitation of 2-hydroxyimipramine in blood and urine.

Author Information

Fraser, AD
Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
Susnik, E
Toxicology Laboratory, Victoria General Hospital, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
Isner, AF
Toxicology Laboratory, Victoria General Hospital, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
Pages: 7
Price: $25.00
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Stock #: JFS11159J
ISSN: 0022-1198
DOI: 10.1520/JFS11159J