Methylenedioxypyrovalerone ("Bath Salts"),Related Death: Case Report and Review of the Literature

• NCJ Number: 246264
• Journal: Journal of Forensic Sciences Volume: 58 Issue: 6 Dated: November 2013 Pages: 1654-1659
• Author(s): Kilak Kesha M.D.; Cassie L. Boggs M.D.; Mary G. Ripple M.D.; Carol H. Allan M.D.; Barry Levine Ph.D.; Rebecca Jufer-Phipps Ph.D.; Suzanne Doyon M.D.; PaoLin Chi M.D.; David R. Fowler M.D.
• Date Published: November 2013
• Length: 6 pages
• Publication Format: Article
• Publication Type: Report (Study/Research)
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America

Annotation

Cathinone derivatives bath salts have emerged as the latest drugs of abuse.

Abstract

Cathinone derivatives bath salts have emerged as the latest drugs of abuse. 3,4-methylenedioxypyrovalerone MDPV is the primary active ingredient in bath salts used in this country. This article presents the second reported cause of death by MDPV intoxication alone. In April 2011, a delusional man was emergently brought to a hospital, where he self-reported bath salt usage. He became agitated, developed ventricular tachycardia, hyperthermia, and died. Comprehensive alcohol and drug testing was performed. Using the alkaline drug screen, heart blood contained 0.7 mg/L MDPV and peripheral blood contained 1.0 mg/L MDPV. His bizarre behavior with life-threatening hyperthermia was consistent with an MDPV-induced excited delirium state. MDPV is not yet found by routine immunoassay toxicology screens. Testing for MDPV should be considered in cases with a history of polysubstance abuse with stimulant type drugs, report of acute onset of psychogenic symptoms, excited delirium syndrome, or presentation in a hyperthermic state. Abstract published by arrangement with Wiley.