Hanley, Timothy Michael
Deceased
Timothy Michael Hanley
Demographics
19y, male
Date of death
2006-01-30
Finding date
2007-11-22
Cause of death
poisoning by diphenhydramine and dextromethorphan from 'Herbal Ecstasy'
AI-generated summary
Timothy Michael Hanley, aged 19, died from poisoning by diphenhydramine and dextromethorphan after ingesting 'Herbal Ecstasy' purchased online. This case highlights the dangers of unregulated internet-sourced compounds, particularly those marketed as herbal alternatives to controlled substances. The coroner found no suspicious circumstances. Clinicians should be aware that patients presenting with unexplained altered consciousness, seizures, or vital sign abnormalities may have ingested such compounds. Key lessons include: maintaining high suspicion for toxin exposure in young people with acute presentations; thorough substance use history taking; recognition that internet-sourced 'herbal' products may contain significant pharmaceutical agents; and public education about risks of unregulated compounds. Toxicology screening and poison centre consultation should be considered early in cases of acute unexplained illness.
AI-generated summary and tagging — may contain inaccuracies; refer to original finding for legal purposes.
Drugs involved
Clinical conditions
Contributing factors
- ingestion of unregulated internet-sourced compound
- lack of awareness of pharmaceutical content in 'herbal' product
- product marketed as herbal alternative to controlled substances
Full text
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