Citation

Lounsbury DA, George DJ. Journal of Forensic Identification 2007; 57(4): 512-521.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2007)

DOI

unavailable

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

The fentanyl transdermal patch is widely prescribed for the relief of moderate to severe pain. These patches have high abuse potential and can become convenient instruments for suicide or homicide. Even after continuous use for 72 hours, patches can contain significant and potentially lethal quantities of fentanyl. When fentanyl patches are encountered at crime scenes, the circumstances of their presence should be thoroughly investigated. Particular attention should be given to the preservation of fingerprint evidence on the patch itself and its packaging materials.

Language: en

Keywords

crime; human; homicide; suicide; fentanyl; drug abuse; estradiol; testosterone; article; prescription; unclassified drug; clonidine; finger dermatoglyphics; nicotine; glyceryl trinitrate; lidocaine; scopolamine; anesthesia; oxybutynin; ethinylestradiol; norgesterone; packaging