Drug-related death in Denmark in 2007.

INTRODUCTION

We investigated fatal poisonings among drug addicts in 2007. The cause of death, abuse pattern and geographic differences are presented.

MATERIAL AND

METHODS

All drug-related deaths examined at the three forensic medicine institutes in Denmark in 2007 were evaluated.

RESULTS

The number of drug-related deaths in 2007 was 226. Methadone deaths had increased since 1997 while heroin/morphine deaths decreased. In earlier studies, very few deaths from central stimulants like cocaine and amphetamines occurred (1-1.5%), but in 2007 6% of the deaths were caused by these drugs. Multiple drug use was common. Heroin/morphine, cocaine, amphetamine, cannabis, methadone, benzodiazepines and alcohol were included in the poly-drug use.

CONCLUSION

This investigation shows stabilization in the number of fatal poisonings in drug addicts. Geographic differences were observed. Methadone was the most frequent cause of fatal poisoning and there was a continuous decrease in heroin/morphine deaths. Fatal deaths from cocaine and amphetamine have increased considerably. Multiple drug use was common.

FUNDING: not relevant.

TRIAL REGISTRATION: not relevant.