A Guide for the Interpretation of Postmortem Methamphetamine Findings: A Series of Case Reports

A Guide for the Interpretation of Postmortem Methamphetamine Findings: A Series of Case Reports

Incidents involving illicit methamphetamine have demonstrated a dramatic increase in recent years. This prevalence has been attributed to its low cost, availability and extended duration of action. Furthermore, the ease of production from inexpensive, readily available materials has contributed to its increased production and distribution. When used moderately, effects include euphoria, increased heart rate, elevated blood pressure, reduced appetite and loss of inhibition. Excessive or chronic use may lead to manic and violent behavior, dizziness, confusion, hyperthermia, seizure, cardiorespiratory depression and death.