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Šoša I. Quetiapine-Related Deaths: In Search of a Surrogate Endpoint. TOXICS 2024; 12:37. [PMID: 38250993 PMCID: PMC10819769 DOI: 10.3390/toxics12010037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2023] [Revised: 12/30/2023] [Accepted: 01/01/2024] [Indexed: 01/23/2024]
Abstract
Quetiapine is a second-generation antipsychotic drug available for two and half decades. Due to increased misuse, prescription outside the approved indications, and availability on the black market, it is being encountered in medicolegal autopsies more frequently. For instance, it has been linked to increased mortality rates, most likely due to its adverse effects on the cardiovascular system. Its pharmacokinetic features and significant postmortem redistribution challenge traditional sampling in forensic toxicology. Therefore, a systematic literature review was performed, inclusive of PubMed, the Web of Science-core collection, and the Scopus databases; articles were screened for the terms "quetiapine", "death", and "autopsy" to reevaluate each matrix used as a surrogate endpoint in the forensic toxicology of quetiapine-related deaths. Ultimately, this review considers the results of five studies that were well presented (more than two matrices, data available for all analyses, for instance). The highest quetiapine concentrations were usually measured in the liver tissue. As interpreted by their authors, the results of the considered studies showed a strong correlation between some matrices, but, unfortunately, the studies presented models with poor goodness of fit. The distribution of quetiapine in distinct body compartments/tissues showed no statistically significant relationship with the length of the postmortem interval. Furthermore, this study did not confirm the anecdotal correlation of peripheral blood concentrations with skeletal muscle concentrations. Otherwise, there was no consistency regarding selecting an endpoint for analysis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ivan Šoša
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, University of Rijeka, 51000 Rijeka, Croatia
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2
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Andersen FD, Simonsen U, Andersen CU. Quetiapine and other antipsychotics combined with opioids in legal autopsy cases: A random finding or cause of fatal outcome? Basic Clin Pharmacol Toxicol 2020; 128:66-79. [PMID: 33245632 DOI: 10.1111/bcpt.13480] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2020] [Revised: 08/10/2020] [Accepted: 08/10/2020] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
Opioid poisoning is a frequent cause of death in drug addicts and occurs with opioid treatment. Quetiapine is often found in forensic autopsies and may increase the risk of fatal opioid poisoning by enhancing sedation, respiratory depression, hypotension and QT prolongation. We systematically searched for studies of acute toxicity of quetiapine or other antipsychotics combined with morphine or methadone. Case reports describing toxicity of quetiapine combined with morphine or methadone were also included. We retrieved one human study that observed pharmacokinetic interaction between quetiapine and methadone, and 16 other human studies. Fourteen investigated the combination of droperidol and morphine in treatment doses, and some indicated an additive sedative effect. Five animal studies with acepromazine in combination with morphine or methadone were located and indicated an additive effect on sedation and hypotension. Six forensic case reports in which death could have been caused solely by quetiapine, the opioid, or other drugs were found. Thus, acute toxicity of quetiapine combined with morphine or methadone has not been studied. Because of quetiapine's effects on alpha-adrenoceptors, muscarinic and histamine receptors, human ether-a-go-go-channels and methadone kinetics, we suggest further research to clarify if the indicated additive effects of opioids and droperidol or acepromazine are also true for quetiapine.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ulf Simonsen
- Department of Biomedicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Charlotte Uggerhøj Andersen
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark.,Department of Biomedicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark.,Department of Clinical Pharmacology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
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3
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Turra BO, Barbisan F, Azzolin VF, Teixeira CF, Flores T, Braun LE, de Oliveira Nerys DA, Rissi VB, de Oliveira Alves A, Assmann CE, da Cruz Jung IE, Marques LPS, da Cruz IBM. Unmetabolized quetiapine exerts an in vitro effect on innate immune cells by modulating inflammatory response and neutrophil extracellular trap formation. Biomed Pharmacother 2020; 131:110497. [PMID: 33152899 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2020.110497] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2020] [Revised: 06/30/2020] [Accepted: 07/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Quetiapine is an antipsychotic drug that is used to treat psychiatric and neurological disorders. Despite its efficiency and low-toxicity, quetiapine administration has been associated with undesirable side effects such as the development of low-grade inflammatory disorders and neutropenia states. As the liver rapidly metabolizes quetiapine to metabolites, the non-metabolized part of this molecule might play a role in immune alterations. In an in vitro study, this hypothesis was tested by exposing activated and inactivated RAW-264.7 macrophages and human neutrophils to unmetabolized quetiapine (u-QUE). Based on our findings, u-QUE was not cytotoxic to these cells. u-QUE differentially modulates macrophages according to their activation states. In inactivated macrophages, u-QUE induced a proinflammatory state as observed by an increase in cellular proliferation; increased levels of oxidative molecules (nitric oxide and superoxide), protein levels, and gene overexpression of proinflammatory cytokines (IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α); and decreased levels of IL-10, an anti-inflammatory cytokine. Conversely, on phytohemagglutinin (PHA)-activated macrophages, u-QUE exerted an anti-inflammatory effect. u-QUE induced neutrophil extracellular trap (NET) formation and increased the sensitivity of the neutrophils previously activated by exposure to dead yeast cells for NET formation. These results confirm the effect of quetiapine on macrophage and neutrophil function, which may be associated with the side effects of this psychopharmaceutical agent.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bárbara Osmarin Turra
- Graduate Program of Pharmacology, Universidade Federal Santa Maria, Santa Maria, RS, Brazil
| | - Fernanda Barbisan
- Graduate Program in Gerontology, Universidade Federal Santa Maria, Santa Maria, RS, Brazil
| | | | | | - Thamara Flores
- Graduate Program of Pharmacology, Universidade Federal Santa Maria, Santa Maria, RS, Brazil
| | | | | | - Vitor Braga Rissi
- Biotechnology and Animal Reproduction Laboratory, Universidade Federal Santa Maria, Santa Maria, RS, Brazil
| | | | - Charles Elias Assmann
- Graduate Program of Biological Sciences, Universidade Federal Santa Maria, Santa Maria, RS, Brazil
| | | | | | - Ivana Beatrice Mânica da Cruz
- Graduate Program of Pharmacology, Universidade Federal Santa Maria, Santa Maria, RS, Brazil; Graduate Program in Gerontology, Universidade Federal Santa Maria, Santa Maria, RS, Brazil.
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4
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The importance of sample size with regard to the robustness of postmortem reference values. Forensic Sci Int 2020; 311:110292. [PMID: 32330811 DOI: 10.1016/j.forsciint.2020.110292] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2020] [Revised: 04/01/2020] [Accepted: 04/03/2020] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Evaluating postmortem toxicological results is a challenging task due to multiple factors affecting blood concentrations after death. In order to improve the diagnostic accuracy in cases of suspected fatal intoxication different compilations of postmortem reference drug concentrations are often used. However, it is not clear what constitutes a reliable postmortem reference value. The current study presents reference concentrations for 13 substances from seven substance groups according to a standardized protocol. The reference concentrations were gathered from 3767 autopsy cases and subdivided into intoxications by one substance only (Group A, n=611), multi-substance intoxications (Group B, n=1355) and postmortem controls, in which incapacitation by drugs were excluded (Group C, n=1801). In particular, this study presents statistical information about the precision and conformity change with various sample sizes. Based on the present data >10 detections are usually needed, for the substances examined, to differentiate between intoxication cases and controls. Repeated samplings show that the median of small samples (N=≤5) has a high variation (normalized interquartile range 138-75%) and that a high number of detections (N=>20) in each group are needed to reduce the variation.
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Abstract
PURPOSE/BACKGROUND Quetiapine is a relatively new atypical antipsychotic with fewer adverse effects. It is increasingly prescribed to patients. The purpose of this study was to describe the cases of poisoning observed at the western France Poison Control Centre and identify potential risk factors that increase the severity of the cases. METHODS This was a retrospective study of self-poisoning with quetiapine as reported by the western France Poison Control Centre between 2007 and 2017. RESULTS There were 372 cases of quetiapine poisoning. Circumstances are known in 367 of 372 cases. There were 75 cases of null severity (grade 0), 133 cases of mild severity (grade 1), 85 cases of moderate severity (grade 2), and 79 cases of high severity (grade 3). Five deaths were listed in this series. The most commonly observed symptoms were neurological and cardiovascular in nature (drowsiness, coma, tachycardia, hypotension). Of these cases, 79.8% included voluntary ingestions. Among 302 cases with coagents, the most common coagents were benzodiazepines (56%), other psychotropic drugs (41%), and antidepressants (37%). An evaluated ingested dose 1500 mg or greater and 2 or more coagents increase the risk of severe poisoning. In particular, concomitant ingestion of benzodiazepines and antidepressants with quetiapine was associated with high severity (odds ratio, 2.478 [confidence interval, 1.3-4.723]; odds ratio, 1.820 [confidence interval, 1.010-3.316]). CONCLUSIONS Quetiapine may lead to severe poisoning for which there is currently no specific treatment. Patients and practitioners should be aware of this when quetiapine is prescribed, particularly when used in combination with other medications, and in order to deal with cases of poisoning.
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Vento AE, Kotzalidis GD, Cacciotti M, Papanti GD, Orsolini L, Rapinesi C, Savoja V, Calabrò G, Del Casale A, Piacentino D, Caloro M, Girardi P, Schifano F. Quetiapine Abuse Fourteen Years Later: Where Are We Now? A Systematic Review. Subst Use Misuse 2020; 55:304-313. [PMID: 31573374 DOI: 10.1080/10826084.2019.1668013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Background: Quetiapine, an atypical antipsychotic endowed with weak dopamine antagonist, potent 5-HT2A-blocking, partial 5-HT1A-agonist, anti-H1 histamine, adrenolytic, and sigma1 receptor agonist activities, since an original 2004 report is increasingly misused. Although some of its pharmacodynamics might explain some motives for voluptuary use, most of its actions are directed at setting-off those motives. Hence, it is possible that its popularity in special populations is due to the fact that the unpleasant or unwanted effects of addiction substances are somehow soothed by quetiapine. Currently, quetiapine is tested in substance use disorders, showing some promise, but it is likely to be misused in certain contexts. Objectives: To review the evidence for the use of quetiapine as addiction substance and investigate the characteristics of populations involved in such addiction. Methods: A systematic review of literature on various databases retrieved on September 7, 2018 87 records to comment. Results. We reviewed the evidence for quetiapine's addictive potential in the light of its pharmacodynamics properties and presented two cases of recreational quetiapine use, by a 35-year old male patient with past addictive behavior and by a 50-year-old woman with major depressive disorder and conversion disorder. We found quetiapine to be abused mainly by addict populations and people with law involvement. Conclusions/Importance: There is no reason to include quetiapine among regulated substances, but monitoring of its use in selected populations is warranted. Psychiatrists and physicians working in the penitentiary system should be aware of the addictive potential of quetiapine and adopt measures restricting its use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandro E Vento
- NESMOS Department (Neurosciences, Mental Health and Sensory Organs), Sapienza University - Rome, School of Medicine and Psychology; Sant'Andrea Hospital, Rome, Italy.,School of psychology - G. Marconi, Telematic University, Rome, Italy.,Addictions Observatory (ODDPSS), Rome, Italy.,Mental Health Department - ASL Roma 2, Rome, Italy
| | - Georgios D Kotzalidis
- NESMOS Department (Neurosciences, Mental Health and Sensory Organs), Sapienza University - Rome, School of Medicine and Psychology; Sant'Andrea Hospital, Rome, Italy
| | - Marta Cacciotti
- NESMOS Department (Neurosciences, Mental Health and Sensory Organs), Sapienza University - Rome, School of Medicine and Psychology; Sant'Andrea Hospital, Rome, Italy.,School of psychology - G. Marconi, Telematic University, Rome, Italy.,Addictions Observatory (ODDPSS), Rome, Italy.,Mental Health Department - ASL Roma 2, Rome, Italy
| | - G Duccio Papanti
- Udine Mental Health Department - SOPDC, Udine, Italy.,Psychopharmacology, Drug Misuse and Novel Psychoactive Substances Research Unit, School of Life and Medical Sciences, College Lane Campus, University of Hertfordshire, Herts, England
| | - Laura Orsolini
- Psychopharmacology, Drug Misuse and Novel Psychoactive Substances Research Unit, School of Life and Medical Sciences, College Lane Campus, University of Hertfordshire, Herts, England.,Neomesia Mental Health, Villa Jolanda Hospital, Jesi, Italy.,Polyedra Research, Teramo, Italy
| | - Chiara Rapinesi
- NESMOS Department (Neurosciences, Mental Health and Sensory Organs), Sapienza University - Rome, School of Medicine and Psychology; Sant'Andrea Hospital, Rome, Italy
| | - Valeria Savoja
- NESMOS Department (Neurosciences, Mental Health and Sensory Organs), Sapienza University - Rome, School of Medicine and Psychology; Sant'Andrea Hospital, Rome, Italy.,Mental Health Department, ASL Roma 4, Rome, Italy
| | - Giuseppa Calabrò
- NESMOS Department (Neurosciences, Mental Health and Sensory Organs), Sapienza University - Rome, School of Medicine and Psychology; Sant'Andrea Hospital, Rome, Italy
| | - Antonio Del Casale
- NESMOS Department (Neurosciences, Mental Health and Sensory Organs), Sapienza University - Rome, School of Medicine and Psychology; Sant'Andrea Hospital, Rome, Italy
| | - Daria Piacentino
- NESMOS Department (Neurosciences, Mental Health and Sensory Organs), Sapienza University - Rome, School of Medicine and Psychology; Sant'Andrea Hospital, Rome, Italy.,Section on Clinical Psychoneuroendocrinology and Neuropsychopharmacology (Cpn), Niaaa Dicbr and Nida Irp; National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Matteo Caloro
- NESMOS Department (Neurosciences, Mental Health and Sensory Organs), Sapienza University - Rome, School of Medicine and Psychology; Sant'Andrea Hospital, Rome, Italy
| | - Paolo Girardi
- NESMOS Department (Neurosciences, Mental Health and Sensory Organs), Sapienza University - Rome, School of Medicine and Psychology; Sant'Andrea Hospital, Rome, Italy
| | - Fabrizio Schifano
- Psychopharmacology, Drug Misuse and Novel Psychoactive Substances Research Unit, School of Life and Medical Sciences, College Lane Campus, University of Hertfordshire, Herts, England
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7
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Safe drugs in drug facilitated crimes and acute intoxications in Northern Italy. Forensic Sci Med Pathol 2018; 14:442-449. [DOI: 10.1007/s12024-018-0010-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/20/2018] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
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Lee J, Pilgrim J, Gerostamoulos D, Robinson J, Wong A. Increasing rates of quetiapine overdose, misuse, and mortality in Victoria, Australia. Drug Alcohol Depend 2018; 187:95-99. [PMID: 29655032 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2018.03.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2017] [Revised: 12/22/2017] [Accepted: 03/01/2018] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Quetiapine is misused due to its anxiolytic and hedonic effects and has been associated with deliberate self-harm. This study analyzed quetiapine-related calls to the Victorian Poisons Information Centre (VPIC), coronial data from Victorian Institute of Forensic Medicine (VIFM) and prescribed data from the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) to determine current trends in overdose, misuse and mortality. METHODS This was a retrospective review of multiple databases. Calls to VPIC and coronial data from the VIFM were reviewed from 2006 to 2016. PBS prescription data from 2000 to 2015 was obtained from the Australian Statistics on Medicines website. RESULTS VPIC data indicated a 6-fold increase in the number of quetiapine-related calls over the 11-year period of which most were overdose-related (77%). Overdose and misuse calls increased by 6-fold and 6.6-fold, respectively. Coronial data also indicated a rise in quetiapine-related harm; a 7.4-fold increase in quetiapine-related deaths was recorded for the same period. Similarly, Australian PBS data showed that quetiapine prescriptions increased 285-fold since 2000. There was a significant positive correlation between the increase in prescribing and overdose (r = 0.75, p < 0.001), and prescribing and mortality (r = 0.82, p < 0.01). CONCLUSIONS This study revealed an increasing trend of misuse, non-fatal and fatal overdoses in Victoria over the last decade. The increasing rates of prescriptions in Australia and thus increased quetiapine availability are likely to have contributed to increased poisoning and mortality. Further research is warranted to explore the reasons behind increased prescribing, including off-label use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia Lee
- Melbourne Medical School, University of Melbourne, Grattan Street, Parkville, 3010, Australia.
| | - Jennifer Pilgrim
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Drug Harm Prevention Unit, Monash University, 65 Kavanagh Street, Southbank, VIC, 3006, Australia
| | - Dimitri Gerostamoulos
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Drug Harm Prevention Unit, Monash University, 65 Kavanagh Street, Southbank, VIC, 3006, Australia; Victorian Institute of Forensic Medicine, 65 Kavanagh Street, Southbank, VIC, 3006, Australia
| | - Jeff Robinson
- Victorian Poisons Information Centre, Austin Health, 145 Studley Road, Heidelberg, Victoria, 3084, Australia
| | - Anselm Wong
- Victorian Poisons Information Centre and Emergency Department, Austin Health, 145 Studley Rd, Heidelberg, VIC, 3084, Australia; Department of Medicine, School of Clinical Sciences, Monash University, VIC, Australia; Department of Medicine and Department of Surgery, University of Melbourne, Austin Health, 145 Studley Rd, Heidelberg, VIC, 3084, Australia
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9
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Schifano F, Chiappini S, Corkery JM, Guirguis A. Abuse of Prescription Drugs in the Context of Novel Psychoactive Substances (NPS): A Systematic Review. Brain Sci 2018; 8:E73. [PMID: 29690558 PMCID: PMC5924409 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci8040073] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2018] [Revised: 04/11/2018] [Accepted: 04/20/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Recently, a range of prescription and over-the-counter drugs have been reportedly used as Novel Psychoactive Substances (NPS), due to their potential for abuse resulting from their high dosage/idiosyncratic methods of self-administration. This paper provides a systematic review of the topic, focusing on a range of medications which have emerged as being used recreationally, either on their own or in combination with NPS. Among gabapentinoids, pregabalin may present with higher addictive liability levels than gabapentin, with pregabalin being mostly identified in the context of opioid, polydrug intake. For antidepressants, their dopaminergic, stimulant-like, bupropion activities may explain their recreational value and diversion from the therapeutic intended use. In some vulnerable clients, a high dosage of venlafaxine (‘baby ecstasy’) is ingested for recreational purposes, whilst the occurrence of a clinically-relevant withdrawal syndrome may be a significant issue for all venlafaxine-treated patients. Considering second generation antipsychotics, olanzapine appears to be ingested at very large dosages as an ‘ideal trip terminator’, whilst the immediate-release quetiapine formulation may possess proper abuse liability levels. Within the image- and performance- enhancing drugs (IPEDs) group, the beta-2 agonist clenbuterol (‘size zero pill’) is reported to be self-administered for aggressive slimming purposes. Finally, high/very high dosage ingestion of the antidiarrhoeal loperamide has shown recent increasing levels of popularity due to its central recreational, anti-withdrawal, opiatergic effects. The emerging abuse of prescription drugs within the context of a rapidly modifying drug scenario represents a challenge for psychiatry, public health and drug-control policies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fabrizio Schifano
- Psychopharmacology, Drug Misuse and Novel Psychoactive Substances Research Unit, School of Life and Medical Sciences, University of Hertfordshire, Hertfordshire AL10 9AB, UK.
| | - Stefania Chiappini
- Psychopharmacology, Drug Misuse and Novel Psychoactive Substances Research Unit, School of Life and Medical Sciences, University of Hertfordshire, Hertfordshire AL10 9AB, UK.
| | - John M Corkery
- Psychopharmacology, Drug Misuse and Novel Psychoactive Substances Research Unit, School of Life and Medical Sciences, University of Hertfordshire, Hertfordshire AL10 9AB, UK.
| | - Amira Guirguis
- Psychopharmacology, Drug Misuse and Novel Psychoactive Substances Research Unit, School of Life and Medical Sciences, University of Hertfordshire, Hertfordshire AL10 9AB, UK.
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10
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Is There a Potential of Misuse for Quetiapine?: Literature Review and Analysis of the European Medicines Agency/European Medicines Agency Adverse Drug Reactions' Database. J Clin Psychopharmacol 2018; 38:72-79. [PMID: 29210868 DOI: 10.1097/jcp.0000000000000814] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE/BACKGROUND A recent years' increase in both prescribing and availability of second-generation antipsychotics (SGAs) has been observed. According to the literature, typically made up by case studies/series, quetiapine seems to be the most commonly misused SGA, with both intranasal and intravenous intake modalities having been described. Another SGA that has been anecdotally reported to be misused is olanzapine. For these molecules, both a previous history of drug misuse and being an inmate have been described as factors associated with misuse. Hence, while providing here an updated literature review of the topic, we aimed at assessing all cases of quetiapine misuse/abuse/dependence/withdrawal as reported to the European Medicines Agency's EudraVigilance (EV) database; this was carried out in comparison with the reference drug olanzapine. METHODS All spontaneous, European Medicines Agency database reports relating to both quetiapine (2005-2016) and olanzapine (2004-2016) misuse/abuse/dependence/withdrawal issues were retrieved, and a descriptive analysis was performed. RESULTS From the EV database, 18,112 (8.64% of 209,571) and 4178 (7.58% of 55,100) adverse drug reaction reports of misuse/abuse/dependence/withdrawal were associated with quetiapine and olanzapine, respectively. The resulting proportional reporting ratio values suggested that the misuse/abuse-, dependence-, and withdrawal-related adverse drug reactions were more frequently reported for quetiapine (1.07, 1.01, and 5.25, respectively) in comparison with olanzapine. CONCLUSIONS Despite data collection limitations, present EV data may suggest that, at least in comparison with olanzapine, quetiapine misuse may be a cause for concern.
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Montebello ME, Brett J. Misuse and Associated Harms of Quetiapine and Other Atypical Antipsychotics. Curr Top Behav Neurosci 2017; 34:125-139. [PMID: 26695164 DOI: 10.1007/7854_2015_424] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
Recent years have seen a significant increase in the reports of atypical antipsychotic diversion, misuse and even dependency syndrome. These reports have arisen amidst a marked increase in prescribing of these agents. Much of this increase in prescribing is because of a preferential use of these medications over typical antipsychotic agents to treat schizophrenia and bipolar disorder due to perceptions of fewer extrapyramidal side effects. However, there has also been a significant increase in the off-label prescribing of these medicines to treat less well evidence-based conditions. Misuse and abuse are perhaps surprising given the putative central role of dopamine in addiction and that these agents are dopamine antagonists. However, there may be other factors such as other pharmacological effects and increasing availability driving this misuse. It is also apparent that certain patient groups appear to be more at risk. Here, we explore the evidence behind the misuse of atypical antipsychotics with a focus of quetiapine. We consider the factors that may be driving this misuse, and then, we also detail some of the adverse effects that may ensue. We end by suggesting interventions at a prescriber and systems level that may be implemented to reduce the risk of atypical antipsychotic misuse.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark E Montebello
- Drug and Alcohol Service, South Eastern Sydney Local Health District, Surry Hills, Australia.
- National Drug and Alcohol Research Centre, University of New South Wales, Randwick, Australia.
| | - Jonathan Brett
- Drug Health Services, Sydney Local Health District, Camperdown, Australia
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12
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Söderberg C, Wernvik E, Tillmar A, Spigset O, Kronstrand R, Reis M, Jönsson AK, Druid H. Antipsychotics Postmortem fatal and non-fatal reference concentrations. Forensic Sci Int 2016; 266:91-101. [DOI: 10.1016/j.forsciint.2016.05.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2016] [Revised: 04/14/2016] [Accepted: 05/02/2016] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
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13
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El-Saifi N, Jones C, Moyle W. Quetiapine adverse events in older adults in Australia. Australas J Ageing 2016; 35:281-284. [DOI: 10.1111/ajag.12347] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Najwan El-Saifi
- Menzies Health Institute Queensland; Griffith University; Brisbane Queensland Australia
| | - Cindy Jones
- Menzies Health Institute Queensland; Griffith University; Brisbane Queensland Australia
- Centre for Health Practice Innovation; Griffith University; Brisbane Queensland Australia
| | - Wendy Moyle
- Menzies Health Institute Queensland; Griffith University; Brisbane Queensland Australia
- Centre for Health Practice Innovation; Griffith University; Brisbane Queensland Australia
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14
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Berling I, Buckley NA, Isbister GK. The antipsychotic story: changes in prescriptions and overdose without better safety. Br J Clin Pharmacol 2016; 82:249-54. [PMID: 26945707 DOI: 10.1111/bcp.12927] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2015] [Revised: 03/01/2016] [Accepted: 03/01/2016] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
AIMS Morbidity and mortality from drug overdose has decreased over three decades. This is credited to safer drugs and therefore better outcomes in overdose. We aimed to investigate changing prescriptions of antipsychotic medications and associated changes in antipsychotic overdoses over a 26-year period. METHODS All antipsychotic poisoning presentations to a tertiary referral toxicology unit between 1987 and 2012 were reviewed. Data were collected prospectively on demographics, ingestion information, clinical effects, complications and treatment. Rates of antipsychotic drug use in Australia were obtained from Australian government publications for 1990-2011 and linked to overdose admissions by postcode. RESULTS There were 3180 antipsychotic overdoses: 1235 first generation antipsychotics, 1695 'atypical' second generation antipsychotics and 250 lithium overdoses. Over 26 years, antipsychotic overdoses increased 1.8-fold, with first generation antipsychotics decreasing to one-fifth of their peak (≈80/year to 16) and second generation antipsychotics increasing to double this (≈160/year), olanzapine and quetiapine accounting for 78%. All antipsychotic overdoses had a median length of stay of 18.6 h, 15.7% admitted to intensive care unit, 10.4% ventilated and 0.13% died in hospital, which was the same for first generation compared to second generation antipsychotics. There was a 2.3-fold increase in antipsychotic prescriptions over the same period; first generation antipsychotics declined whereas there was a dramatic rise in second generation antipsychotics, mainly olanzapine, quetiapine and risperidone (79%). CONCLUSION Over 26 years there was an increase in antipsychotic prescribing associated with an increase in antipsychotic overdoses. Although the type of antipsychotics changed, the morbidity and mortality remained the same, so that antipsychotics are an increasing proportion of overdose admissions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ingrid Berling
- Department of Clinical Toxicology and Pharmacology, Calvary Mater Newcastle, Newcastle, NSW, Australia.,School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Newcastle, Newcastle, NSW, Australia
| | - Nicholas A Buckley
- Clinical Pharmacology, Sydney Medical School, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Geoffrey K Isbister
- Department of Clinical Toxicology and Pharmacology, Calvary Mater Newcastle, Newcastle, NSW, Australia.,School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Newcastle, Newcastle, NSW, Australia
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Bugeja L, Ibrahim JE, Ferrah N, Murphy B, Willoughby M, Ranson D. The utility of medico-legal databases for public health research: a systematic review of peer-reviewed publications using the National Coronial Information System. Health Res Policy Syst 2016; 14:28. [PMID: 27067413 PMCID: PMC4828834 DOI: 10.1186/s12961-016-0096-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2015] [Accepted: 03/24/2016] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Medico-legal death investigations are a recognised data source for public health endeavours and its accessibility has increased following the development of electronic data systems. Despite time and cost savings, the strengths and limitations of this method and impact on research findings remain untested. This study examines this issue using the National Coronial Information System (NCIS). METHODS PubMed, ProQuest and Informit were searched to identify publications where the NCIS was used as a data source for research published during the period 2000-2014. A descriptive analysis was performed to describe the frequency and characteristics of the publications identified. A content analysis was performed to identify the nature and impact of strengths and limitations of the NCIS as reported by researchers. RESULTS Of the 106 publications included, 30 reported strengths and limitations, 37 reported limitations only, seven reported strengths only and 32 reported neither. The impact of the reported strengths of the NCIS was described in 14 publications, whilst 46 publications discussed the impacts of limitations. The NCIS was reported to be a reliable source of quality, detailed information with comprehensive coverage of deaths of interest, making it a powerful injury surveillance tool. Despite these strengths, researchers reported that open cases and missing information created the potential for selection and reporting biases and may preclude the identification and control of confounders. CONCLUSIONS To ensure research results are valid and inform health policy, it is essential to consider and seek to overcome the limitations of data sources that may have an impact on results.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lyndal Bugeja
- />Health Law & Ageing Research Unit, Department of Forensic Medicine, School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, 65 Kavanagh Street, Southbank, 3006 Australia
- />Coroners Court of Victoria, 65 Kavanagh Street, Southbank, Victoria 3006 Australia
| | - Joseph E. Ibrahim
- />Health Law & Ageing Research Unit, Department of Forensic Medicine, School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, 65 Kavanagh Street, Southbank, 3006 Australia
| | - Noha Ferrah
- />Health Law & Ageing Research Unit, Department of Forensic Medicine, School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, 65 Kavanagh Street, Southbank, 3006 Australia
| | - Briony Murphy
- />Health Law & Ageing Research Unit, Department of Forensic Medicine, School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, 65 Kavanagh Street, Southbank, 3006 Australia
| | - Melissa Willoughby
- />Health Law & Ageing Research Unit, Department of Forensic Medicine, School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, 65 Kavanagh Street, Southbank, 3006 Australia
- />Coroners Court of Victoria, 65 Kavanagh Street, Southbank, Victoria 3006 Australia
| | - David Ranson
- />Victorian Institute of Forensic Medicine, 65 Kavanagh Street, Southbank, 3006 Australia
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Handley S, Patel MX, Flanagan RJ. Antipsychotic-related fatal poisoning, England and Wales, 1993-2013: impact of the withdrawal of thioridazine. Clin Toxicol (Phila) 2016; 54:471-80. [PMID: 27023487 DOI: 10.3109/15563650.2016.1164861] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT Use of second generation antipsychotics in England and Wales has increased in recent years whilst prescription of first generation antipsychotics has decreased. METHODS To evaluate the impact of this change and of the withdrawal of thioridazine in 2000 on antipsychotic-related fatal poisoning, we reviewed all such deaths in England and Wales 1993-2013 recorded on the Office for National Statistics drug poisoning deaths database. We also reviewed antipsychotic prescribing in the community, England and Wales, 2001-2013. Use of routine mortality data: When an antipsychotic was recorded with other drug(s), the death certificate does not normally say if the antipsychotic caused the death rather than the other substance(s). A second consideration concerns intent. A record of "undetermined intent" is likely to have been intentional self-poisoning, the evidence being insufficient to be certain that the individual intended to kill. A record of drug abuse/dependence, on the other hand, is likely to have been associated with an unintentional death. Accuracy of the diagnosis of poisoning: When investigating a death in someone prescribed antipsychotics, toxicological analysis of biological samples collected post-mortem is usually performed. However, prolonged attempts at resuscitation, or diffusion from tissues into blood as autolysis proceeds, may serve to alter the composition of blood sampled after death from that circulating at death. With chlorpromazine and with olanzapine a further factor is that these compounds are notoriously unstable in post-mortem blood. Deaths from antipsychotics: There were 1544 antipsychotic-related poisoning deaths. Deaths in males (N = 948) were almost twice those in females. For most antipsychotics, the proportion of deaths in which a specific antipsychotic featured either alone, or only with alcohol was 30-40%, but for clozapine (193 deaths) such mentions totalled 66%. For clozapine, the proportion of deaths attributed to either intentional self-harm, or undetermined intent was 44%, but for all other drugs except haloperidol (20 deaths) the proportion was 56% or more. The annual number of antipsychotic-related deaths increased from some 55 per year (1.0 per million population) between 1993 and 1998 to 74 (1.5 per million population) in 2000, and then after falling slightly in 2002 increased steadily to reach 109 (1.9 per million population) in 2013. Intent: The annual number of intentional and unascertained intent poisoning deaths remained relatively constant throughout the study period (1993: 35 deaths, 2013: 38 deaths) hence the increase in antipsychotic-related deaths since 2002 was almost entirely in unintentional poisoning involving second generation antipsychotics. Clozapine, olanzapine, and quetiapine were the second generation antipsychotics mentioned most frequently in unintentional poisonings (99, 136, and 99 deaths, respectively). Mentions of diamorphine/morphine and methadone (67 and 99 deaths, respectively) together with an antipsychotic were mainly (84 and 90%, respectively) in either unintentional or drug abuse-related deaths. Deaths and community prescriptions: Deaths involving antipsychotics (10 or more deaths) were in the range 11.3-17.1 deaths per million community prescriptions in England and Wales, 2001-2013. Almost all (96%) such deaths now involve second generation antipsychotics. This is keeping with the increase in annual numbers of prescriptions of these drugs overall (<1 million in 2000, 7 million in 2013), largely driven by increases in prescriptions for olanzapine and quetiapine. In contrast, deaths involving thioridazine declined markedly (from 40 in 2000 to 10 in 2003-2013) in line with the fall in prescriptions for thioridazine from 2001. CONCLUSIONS The removal of thioridazine has had no apparent effect on the incidence of antipsychotic-related fatal poisoning in England and Wales. That such deaths have increased steadily since 2001 is in large part attributable to an increase in unintentional deaths related to (i) clozapine, and (ii) co-exposure to opioids, principally diamorphine and methadone.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Handley
- a Toxicology Unit, Department of Clinical Biochemistry , King's College Hospital NHS Foundation Trust , London , UK
| | - M X Patel
- b Department of Psychosis Studies , Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London , London , UK
| | - R J Flanagan
- a Toxicology Unit, Department of Clinical Biochemistry , King's College Hospital NHS Foundation Trust , London , UK
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Peyrière H, Diot C, Eiden C, Petit P. [Abuse Liability of Quetiapine (Xeroquel®)]. Therapie 2015; 78:therapie150048. [PMID: 26242499 DOI: 10.2515/therapie/2015048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2015] [Accepted: 07/06/2015] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE In recent years, there have been several reports in the literature concerning the misuse and abuse of quetiapine. The aim of this study was to review the data reported to the French Network of the Addictovigilance Centers as well as the published data. METHODS Epidemiological data from the studies of French network addictovigilance centers (spontaneous notifications, suspicious presciptions suggesting possible abuse [ ordonnances suspectes indicateur d'abus possibles, OSIAP], observatory of illegal psychotropic substances or delivered substances diverted from their medicinal use survey [observation des produits psychotropes illicites ou détournées de leur utilisation médicamenteuse, OPPIDUM], deaths related to medication and substance abuse survey [décès en relation avec l'abus de médicaments et de substances, DRAMES]) were analyzed between 2011 and 2014. All cases of abuse and dependence with quetiapine in PubMed were reviewed using the MeSH terms "quetiapine," "substances abuse," and "dependence", until October 2014. RESULTS The analysis of the literature has identified 21 cases of abuse related to quetiapine, mainly in men (85.7%), with a history of substance abuse (76%). The main route of administration was oral but other routes were also reported (intravenous, intranasal). The main reason for abuse was sedation and anxiolytic. Other characteristics of quetiapine abuse include amplification or even simulation of psychotic symptoms to obtain quetiapine, an increased dose and the existence of street names. The French addictovigilance network reported few cases of abuse with quetiapine. DISCUSSION-CONCLUSION The pharmacological mechanism of abuse of quetiapine is not fully understood. However, several arguments are in favor of the abuse liability of quetiapine. Despite the recent availability of quetiapine in France, there have been some isolated signals of abuse. Therefore, it seems important to inform prescribers on the risk of misuse of quetiapine and also of some other antipsychotics.
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Abstract
Quetiapine is subsidised by the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme to treat schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. An extended-release formulation is also approved for use, but not subsidised, for treatment-resistant depression and generalised anxiety disorder. There is increasing off-label prescribing of quetiapine for indications such as insomnia that have little evidence to support them. This prescribing is often for at-risk patients, such as people with personality or social vulnerabilities and those at risk of metabolic complications or cardiovascular events. More evidence is required to support prescribing decisions regarding these off-label indications. In the meantime prescribers should be supported with alternatives to prescribing for these conditions, such as psychological therapies that have a better evidence base and safety record.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan Brett
- Clinical Pharmacology and Addiction Medicine, Drug Health, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Sydney
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Mattson ME, Albright VA, Yoon J, Council CL. Emergency Department Visits Involving Misuse and Abuse of the Antipsychotic Quetiapine: Results from the Drug Abuse Warning Network (DAWN). SUBSTANCE ABUSE-RESEARCH AND TREATMENT 2015; 9:39-46. [PMID: 26056465 PMCID: PMC4444129 DOI: 10.4137/sart.s22233] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2014] [Revised: 03/15/2015] [Accepted: 03/16/2015] [Indexed: 12/03/2022]
Abstract
Case reports in medical literature suggest that the atypical antipsychotic quetiapine, a medication not previously considered to have abuse potential, is now being subject to misuse and abuse (MUA; ie, taken when not prescribed for them or used in a way other than instructed by their health professional). Here we present systematic, nationally representative data from the 2005 to 2011 Drug Abuse Warning Network (DAWN) for prevalence of emergency department (ED) visits among the U.S. general population involving quetiapine and related to MUA, suicide attempts, and adverse reactions. Nationally, quetiapine-related ED visits increased 90% between 2005 and 2011, from 35,581 ED visits to 67,497. DAWN data indicate that when used without medical supervision for recreational/self-medication purposes, quetiapine poses health risks for its users, especially among polydrug users and women. These findings suggest that the medical and public health communities should increase vigilance concerning this drug and its potential for MUA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Margaret E Mattson
- Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, Rockville, MD, USA
| | | | - Joanna Yoon
- Health Resources and Services Administration, Rockville, MD, USA
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Coma After Quetiapine Fumarate Intentional Overdose in a 71-year-old Man: A Case Report. DRUG SAFETY - CASE REPORTS 2015; 2:3. [PMID: 27747715 PMCID: PMC4982457 DOI: 10.1007/s40800-015-0005-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
A 71-year-old man developed coma with severe respiratory failure, hypotension, and tachycardia induced by the intentional ingestion of quetiapine fumarate extended release (XR) 20 g. At the time, he had been treated for bipolar depression with venlafaxine 75 mg/day, lamotrigine 100 mg/day, pregabalin 75 mg/day, and quetiapine XR 400 mg/day for approximately 1 year. Comorbidities were hypertension treated with metoprolol, diabetes mellitus type 2 treated with metformin, and benign prostatic hyperplasia treated with silodosin. In the emergency room, about 4 h after ingestion of quetiapine fumarate XR, the presenting symptomatology was characterized by coma (Glasgow Coma Scale score 3), hypotension (blood pressure [BP] 90/60 mmHg), tachycardia (electrocardiogram [ECG] showed sinus tachycardia with heart rate 120 beats per minute and a QTc of 499 ms). A gastric lavage was performed and activated charcoal 50 g and magnesium sulfate 30 g was administered. About 6 h after ingestion, he developed marked desaturation and underwent mechanical ventilation; 13 h after ingestion, a severe hypotensive episode followed (BP 70/40), which was treated with an infusion of ringer lactate 500 cc. On the 3rd day after intentional overdose, an episode of agitation occurred; 4 days after ingestion, the quetiapine plasma level was found to be 42 ng/ml (within therapeutic range). At 5 days after ingestion, the patient developed septicemia caused by staphylococci (probably originating from the central vein catheter), which was treated with antibiotic therapy. On days 10 and 18 after the suicide attempt, two episodes of paroxysmal supraventricular tachycardia (PSVT) occurred and were successfully treated with intravenous adenosine triphosphate. The patient recovered completely without residual symptoms. In line with literature data, in this case report, symptoms of quetiapine overdose were tachycardia, agitation, hypotension, QT interval prolongation, and coma. A causal relationship between PSVT and quetiapine intoxication seems quite unlikely due to the drug level.
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The prevalence of duloxetine in medico-legal death investigations in Victoria, Australia (2009–2012). Forensic Sci Int 2014; 234:165-73. [DOI: 10.1016/j.forsciint.2013.11.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2013] [Revised: 10/07/2013] [Accepted: 11/11/2013] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
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López-Guarnido O, Tabernero MJ, Hernández AF, Rodrigo L, Bermejo AM. Rapid determination of quetiapine in blood by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. Application to post-mortem cases. J Appl Toxicol 2013; 34:1104-8. [DOI: 10.1002/jat.2944] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2013] [Revised: 09/09/2013] [Accepted: 09/09/2013] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Olga López-Guarnido
- Department of Legal Medicine and Toxicology; University of Granada School of Medicine; Avda. Madrid, 11 18071 Granada Spain
| | - María Jesús Tabernero
- Institute of Legal Medicine, Forensic Toxicology Service, Faculty of Medicine San Francisco; s/n 15782 Santiago de Compostela Spain
| | - Antonio F. Hernández
- Department of Legal Medicine and Toxicology; University of Granada School of Medicine; Avda. Madrid, 11 18071 Granada Spain
| | - Lourdes Rodrigo
- Department of Legal Medicine and Toxicology; University of Granada School of Medicine; Avda. Madrid, 11 18071 Granada Spain
| | - Ana M. Bermejo
- Institute of Legal Medicine, Forensic Toxicology Service, Faculty of Medicine San Francisco; s/n 15782 Santiago de Compostela Spain
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