Forensic Toxicology in Urban South Africa

Abstract

BACKGROUND: An analysis has been made of the pattern of deaths due to poisoning in South Africa over the period 1991-1996. METHODS: The database held by the Forensic Science Service Laboratory, covering the period 1991-1996 was analyzed. RESULTS: Agricultural chemicals are a major cause of mortality. Among drugs of abuse, combinations of methaqualone/diphenhydramine and cyclizine/dipipanone contribute a disproportionately high percentage of cases. Metal poisoning is common as are cases of poisoning attributed to remedies prescribed by traditional healers.