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Heroin Addiction and Related Clinical Problems: 2013, 15, 4 (pages: 39 - 44)

The intentionality of fatal poisonings among illicit drug users, and predictors for intentional intoxication in Slovenia during the years 2002-2007.

Lovrecic M., Lovrecic B., Selb Semerl J., Maremmani A.G.I., Maremmani I.

Summary: Background and aims: As a premature, unnatural and preventable form of death, fatal poisoning is a serious public health problem. Illicit drug users show a high risk factor for fatal poisoning. In this study regarding a cohort of Slovenian illicit drug users during the years 2002-2007, we differentiated between intentional and unintentional fatal poisoning, using demographic and toxicological data. Methods: We evaluated the fatal poisoning occurring in those years in Slovenia. Results: 125 (47.4%) subjects committed fatal poisonings with undetermined intent, 71 (26.5%) with accidental intent and 70 (26.1%) with full intent. Age at suicide was lowest for accidental intoxications and highest for intentional intoxication. Half of the victims for intentional intoxication were females. Widows/widowers were better represented in the intentional poisoning group. Alcohol intoxication was found less frequently in that same group; opioids were found less frequently in the intentional group; cocaine was found more frequently in accidental intoxications and only minimally in intentional intoxication. Regarding predictors of intentional intoxication, gender (males), age (older) and alcohol were the most discriminant characteristics. Conclusions: Gender (male), age (older) and non-use of alcohol during intoxication were the best predictors of the intention to commit suicide by poisoning (in Slovenian users of illicit drugs).