Citation

Faller-Marquardt M, Logemann E, Ropohl D. Blutalkohol 1999; 36(1): 44-50.

Affiliation

Faller-Marquardt, M., Institut fur Rechtsmedizin, 79104 Freiburg, Germany

Copyright

(Copyright © 1999, International Committee on Alcohol, Drugs and Traffic Safety and Bund gegen Alkohol und Drogen im Straßenverkehr, Publisher Steintor Verlag)

DOI

unavailable

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

The main indication of chlormethiazole (Distraneurin(registered trademark)) is the treatment of alcohol withdrawal syndrome. Given the risks of overdosing and addiction, the out-patient treatment with Distraneurin(registered trademark) is not recommended (with the exception of special cases and with particular safety measures). In addition there is the danger of driving inability after ingestion of chlormethiazole. There is reference to two cases when alcoholics drove while intoxicated after being given Distraneurin(registered trademark) as out-patients. The chlormethiazole concentration in serum amounted to 7 000 and 9 000 ng/ml respectively. In addition, one of the drivers showed a blood alcohol level of 0.75 g(per mille). Motor and cognitive functions were heavily disturbed. The danger of fatal respiratory arrest after accidental or suicidal overdosing of chlormethiazole is emphasized.