Chapter 9 Drug Identification and Toxicology Introduction Forensic toxicology helps determine (a) the cause-and-effect relationships between exposure to a drug or other substance and (b) the toxic or lethal effects from that exposure. People can be exposed to toxic substances: intentionally—by treating illness or relieving pain accidentally—by harmful combinations or overdoses deliberately—by harming or killing others or by committing suicide Forensic Science: Fundamentals & Investigations, Chapter 9

Poison—Murder, Accidental Overdoses, and Drug Offences Not eve 1% of all homicides results from poisoning. Accidental drug overdoses are more common. More than 50% of the federal prison population and about 20% of the population in state prisons consist of drug offenders. Forensic Science: Fundamentals & Investigations, Chapter 9

Controlled Substances—Hallucinogens The effect and intensity of response to these drugs varies from person to person. Often derived from plants, hallucinogens affect the user’s perceptions, thinking, self-awareness, and emotions. Affects of an overdose include an increased heart rate, often increased blood pressure, and sometimes panic attacks, anxiety, or psychosis. Forensic Science: Fundamentals & Investigations, Chapter 9

Controlled Substances—Narcotics Narcotics reduce pain and can be very habit forming. Forensic Science: Fundamentals & Investigations, Chapter 9

Controlled Substances—Stimulants Stimulants increase feelings of energy and alertness while suppressing appetite. As the drug wears off, however, depression often results. Affects of an overdose can include high blood pressure, agitation, confusion, or seizures. Stimulants tend to be highly addictive. Forensic Science: Fundamentals & Investigations, Chapter 9

Controlled Substances—Anabolic Steroids These drugs are produced in a laboratory and have a chemical structure similar to testosterone. Anabolic steroids promote cell and tissue growth increasing bone mass and body muscle. Because of this they are popular with weightlifters, bodybuilders, and other athletes. What are some of the negative side effects that are possible? – All muscles get bigger, including heart Forensic Science: Fundamentals & Investigations, Chapter 9

Controlled Substances—Depressants Depressants act on the central nervous system and increase the activity of a brain chemical called GABA. Increased GABA production results in drowsiness and slowed brain activity. These drugs, consequently, relieve anxiety and produce sleep. Mixing depressants with alcohol and other drugs increases their effects and health risks, possibly leading to coma and death. Forensic Science: Fundamentals & Investigations, Chapter 9

Controlled Substances—Alcohols In what way are alcohols toxic? Slow down functioning of the body; organs begin to shut down when alcohol poisoning sets in How is grain alcohol produced? Pure alcohol from fermented grain (corn); very dangerous as it is twice as strong as hard liquor; can cause blindness due to the methanol in it What are the classic symptoms of a hangover? Headache, thirst, fatigue & weakness, shakiness, dizziness, sensitivity to sound and light; extreme dehydration What is the effect of alcohol on the central nervous system? Lack of coordination; poor judgement and decision making What can chronic abuse of alcohol cause? Cirrhosis or liver failure

Controlled Substances—Bioterrorism Agents Ricin is a poisonous protein in the castor bean. is lethal in extremely small amounts. can enter the body in various ways: inhaled as a mist or a powder. ingested as food or drink. injected into the body. can cause death within a few hours. Forensic Science: Fundamentals & Investigations, Chapter 9

Controlled Substances—Bioterrorism Agents Anthrax is caused by the bacteria Bacillus anthracis, which forms spores. can be spread to humans from infected animals. can enter the human body through: inhalation; causing breathing problems that usually result in death. ingestion; becoming fatal in 25% to 60% of cases. absorption via the skin; leading to death in about 20% of untreated cases. Forensic Science: Fundamentals & Investigations, Chapter 9