Mortality during the winter flu epidemic--two cases of death associated with self-medication.
We report two cases of mortality associated with the recent winter influenza outbreak. Both cases were associated with self-medication. In one case an elderly lady died from haemorrhagic duodenitis induced by over the counter ibuprofen. In the second case the lady died from the consequences of exceeding the recommended doses of paracetamol by combining doses of the generic product with proprietary flu-remedies and Tylex (paracetamol and codeine).
Stevenson
R
R
Department of Medicine, Ninewells Hospital & Medical School, Dundee DD1 9SY.
MacWalter
R S
RS
Harmse
J D
JD
Wilson
E
E
D000082:Acetaminophen / Q000506:poisoning; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D004196:Disease Outbreaks / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D004382:Duodenitis / Q000139:chemically induced; D017809:Fatal Outcome; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007052:Ibuprofen / Q000009:adverse effects; D007251:Influenza, Human / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000401:mortality*; D008875:Middle Aged; D012621:Seasons; D012651:Self Medication / Q000401:mortality*
D000082:Acetaminophen; D007052:Ibuprofen