The association of preexisting psychosocial pathology with deaths involving propoxyphene or codeine.

The study utilized a sample of 94 propoxyphene- (Darvon) and codeine-related deaths that had occurred in Los Angeles County within a 1-year period (during 1979-1980). Data describing these deaths were obtained from the records of the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner's Office and from interviews with informants who had know the deceased subjects. The findings revealed the presence of extensive psychosocial pathology. High levels of prior drug abuse involving both prescription and illicit drugs were reported. Other findings included a markedly high incidence of prior drug overdoses, arrests, psychiatric disorders, interpersonal conflicts, and prior suicide attempts.