Distribution Study of 3,4-Methylenedioxymethamphetamine and 3,4-Methylenedioxyamphetamine in a Fatal Overdose
Journal of Analytical Toxicology March 1, 2002 Els A. de Letter, Karine M. Clauwaert, Willy E. Lambert et al. 47 citations
In a fatal overdose of MDMA (ecstasy) and its metabolite MDA, concentrations varied widely across different body sites. Central blood samples (heart and great vessels) showed different levels than peripheral blood (subclavian and femoral). High levels were found in liver, lungs, and kidneys, while vitreous humor also contained MDMA, suggesting it could be used when blood is unavailable. The findings confirm that peripheral vein blood is best for accurate measurement, and that postmortem redistribution must be considered when interpreting toxicology results from other sites.