Death following recreational use of designer drug "bath salts" containing 3,4-Methylenedioxypyrovalerone (MDPV)

J Med Toxicol. 2012 Mar;8(1):69-75. doi: 10.1007/s13181-011-0196-9.

Abstract

Introduction: 3,4-Methylenedioxypyrovalerone (MDPV) is a designer stimulant drug that has gained popularity in the USA. Although adverse effects of MDPV have been described, to our knowledge, this is the first reported death.

Case report: We report the case of a 40-year-old male who injected and snorted "bath salts" containing MDPV and subsequently became agitated, aggressive, and experienced a cardiac arrest. He was resuscitated after his initial arrest; however, he developed hyperthermia, rhabdomyolysis, coagulopathy, acidosis, anoxic brain injury, and subsequently died.

Discussion: This is the first case in the medical literature to report death due to isolated confirmed MDPV intoxication. The manner of death is also consistent with excited delirium syndrome.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Benzodioxoles / poisoning*
  • Designer Drugs / poisoning*
  • Electrocardiography / drug effects
  • Fatal Outcome
  • Humans
  • Illicit Drugs / poisoning*
  • Male
  • Pyrrolidines / poisoning*
  • Synthetic Cathinone

Substances

  • Benzodioxoles
  • Designer Drugs
  • Illicit Drugs
  • Pyrrolidines
  • Synthetic Cathinone