Death due to benzhexol toxicity.

A rare case of death due to benzhexol toxicity is reported in a 48-year-old schizophrenic male with a resolving empyema and underlying patchy, mild bronchopneumonia. Toxicological analysis revealed the benzhexol blood and liver concentrations to be 0.12 mg/l and 0.5 mg/kg, respectively. Gastric contents contained 0.4 mg of benzhexol. Other drugs were not detected. It is suggested that for fatalities to occur following benzhexol intoxication, secondary contributory factors, which probably further alter the patient's conscious state, are necessary.