Archiv für Kriminologie
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Archiv für Kriminologie · Jul 2009
Case Reports[Has the transdermal patch gone up in smoke? A fatal fentanyl intoxication].
Recently, there has been an increase in fentanyl-related overdoses following administration of transdermal patches by the buccal, oral or intravenous route or via inhalation. A fatal intoxication is reported with clear evidence from toxicological analysis. However, the administration route and the fate of the patch remained elusive at the end of the investigations. ⋯ The history and circumstances of the case together with the toxicological findings suggest an intravenous or inhalative application of the patch. The latter assumption is supported by the fact that the body was found holding a cigarillo butt in his right hand. The case underlines the necessity to study fentanyl-related deaths more closely to allow a better interpretation of potential intoxications.