Internet-Purchased Sodium Azide Used in a Fatal Suicide Attempt: A Case Report and Review of the Literature

• DOI: 10.3390/toxics11070608
• Publication Date: 2023-07-13T05:58:11Z
• Authors: Lisa T. van der H...; Karen E. van den ...; Erik J. H. Olyslager; Lutea A. A. de Jong; Udo J. L. Reijnders; Eric J. F. Franssen
• Keywords: Sodium azide

There has been a significant increase in sodium azide intoxications since the 1980s. Intoxications caused by are becoming increasingly prevalent Netherlands as result of its promotion for purpose self-euthanasia. The mechanism toxicity is not completely understood but dose-dependent. presented case describes suicide young woman (26 years old) with history depression and attempts. decedent was found presence prescription medicine, including temazepam, domperidone combination omeprazole, chemical preservative azide. Quantitative toxicology screening whole blood revealed 70 µg/L temazepam (toxic range > 1000 µg/L) 28 mg/L (fatal range: 2.6-262 mg/L). Whole qualitative analysis temazepam-glucuronide, olanzapine, n-desmethylolanzapine, acetaminophen. In circles promoting azide, it recommended to use medications targeting azide's negative effects, such analgesics, antiemetics, anti-anxiety drugs. medicines recovered at body's location, well results screens, were consistent recommendations self-euthanasia using