Changing trends in heroin-related deaths in Sydney, Australia-1995 to 1999.
This 1997-1999 study replicates an earlier one (1995-1997) in which coronial cases were reviewed at the Department of Forensic Medicine in Australia. Ten percent of the 2945 cases were considered accidental illicit drug deaths, compared to 4% in the previous study. Heroin was associated with 90% of the deaths, but in only 17% of these cases as a single drug. Concomitant drug use, in particular alcohol, benzodiazepines, and antidepressants, has increased considerably. The combined effects of these substances might play a role in the disturbingly large increase in heroin (morphine) related deaths during this period.
Sheedy
Donna L
DL
Department of Pathology, University of Sydney, NSW, Australia. donnas@med.usyd.edu.au
Garrick
Therese M
TM
Fortis
Andrew H
AH
Harper
Clive G
CG
D002391:Catchment Area, Health; D002423:Cause of Death / Q000639:trends*; D062787:Drug Overdose; D003932:Heroin / Q000506:poisoning; D006556:Heroin Dependence / Q000453:epidemiology* / Q000401:mortality; D006801:Humans; D015994:Incidence; D009517:New South Wales / Q000453:epidemiology; D013997:Time Factors; D014505:Urban Population / Q000639:trends
D003932:Heroin