DEATH DUE TO BENZHEXOL TOXICITY

A rare case of death due to benzhexol toxicity is reported in a 48-yea r-old schizophrenic male with a resolving empyema and underlying patch y, mild bronchopneumonia. Toxicological analysis revealed the benzhexo l blood and liver concentrations to be 0.12 mg/l and 0.5 mg/kg, respec tively. Gastric contents contained 0.4 mg of benzhexol. Other drugs we re not detected. It is suggested that for fatalities to occur followin g benzhexol intoxication, secondary contributory factors, which probab ly further alter the patient's conscious state, are necessary.