[Multiple abscesses induced by self injection of zolpidem].
BACKGROUND
Zolpidem, a hypnotic drug, is occasionally taken in high doses by some drug addicts for its hallucinogenic properties.


METHODS
We report the original observation of a young female addict who developed aseptic cutaneous abscesses on the forearms and feet induced by self injection of powdered zolpidem. Histopathological analysis revealed birefringent vegetal structures.


CONCLUSIONS
The shape and size of the birefringent structures are those of microcrystalline cellulose, an excipient used in zolpidem pills. The same structures have been identified by microscopic examination of a zolpidem tablet dissolved in water.
Scrivener
Y
Y
Clinique Dermatologique, Hôpitaux Universitaires de Strasbourg. Jean-Nicolas.Scrivener@chru-strasbourg.fr
Maradeix
S
S
Konaré
H
H
Cribier
B
B
D000038:Abscess / Q000139:chemically induced*; D000328:Adult; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D006993:Hypnotics and Sedatives / Q000008:administration & dosage* / Q000009:adverse effects*; D011725:Pyridines / Q000008:administration & dosage* / Q000009:adverse effects*; D012646:Self Administration; D012995:Solubility; D013607:Tablets; D000077334:Zolpidem
D006993:Hypnotics and Sedatives; D011725:Pyridines; D013607:Tablets; D000077334:Zolpidem