Poison Murder Accidental Overdoses and Drug Offences Less

Poison- Murder, Accidental Overdoses, and Drug Offences • Less than ½ of 1% of all homicides results from poisoning. • Accidental drug overdoses are more common. • Crime labs spend more time on drug cases than on anything else. • Takes 6 -8 weeks for full toxicology results to come back Forensic Science: Fundamentals & Investigations, Chapter 9 1

Hallucinogens • The effect and intensity of response to these drugs varies from person to person. • Often derived from plants, hallucinogens affect the user’s perceptions, thinking, self-awareness, and emotions. • Affects of an overdose include an increased heart rate, often increased blood pressure, and sometimes panic attacks, anxiety, or psychosis. Forensic Science: Fundamentals & Investigations, Chapter 9 2

Hallucinogens • Ecstasy/MDMA • K 2/Spice • Ketamine • LSD • Peyote & Mescaline • Psilocybin • Marijuana/Cannabis • Inhalants From DEA Website 9/2016 3

Narcotics • Analgesic or pain-killing substance that depresses vital body functions such as blood pressure, pulse rate, and breathing rate. • The regular administration of narcotics will produce physical dependence. Forensic Science: Fundamentals & Investigations, Chapter 9 4

Narcotics • • Fentanyl Heroin Hydromorphone Methadone Morphine Opium Oxycodone • From DEA Website 9/2016 5

Stimulants l Stimulants increase feelings of energy and alertness while suppressing appetite. l As the drug wears off, however, depression often results. l Affects of an overdose can include high blood pressure, agitation, confusion, or seizures. l Stimulants tend to be highly addictive. 6

Stimulants • Amphetamines • Cocaine • Khat • Methamphetamine From DEA Website 9/2016 7

Anabolic Steroids l. Steroids that promote muscle growth l. Chemically related to male sex hormone testosterone l. Side effects include altered mood, personality, and frequently, depression Forensic Science: Fundamentals & Investigations, Chapter 9 8

Depressants act on the central nervous system and increase the activity of a neurotransmitter called GABA which results in drowsiness and slowed brain activity. l These drugs, consequently, relieve anxiety and produce sleep. l Mixing depressants with alcohol and other drugs increases their effects and health risks, possibly leading to coma and death. l Forensic Science: Fundamentals & Investigations, Chapter 9 9

Depressants • Barbiturates • Benzodiazepines • GHB • Rohypnol® From DEA Website 9/2016 10

Drugs of Concern • Bath Salts or Designer Cathinones • DXM • Kratom • Salvia Divinorum From DEA Website 9/2016 11