Intentional overdose and death with 3,4-methylenedioxyethamphetamine (MDEA; "Eve"): case report

Am J Forensic Med Pathol. 1998 Jun;19(2):148-51. doi: 10.1097/00000433-199806000-00009.

Abstract

We report a case of suicide following ingestion of a large dose of 3,4-methylenedioxyethamphetamine (MDEA, "Eve") in a 27-year-old woman with a history of depression. Several days before her death, she had attempted suicide with benzodiazepines resulting in a 24-hour hospital admission; at that time, no physiologic abnormalities were detected. Findings on autopsy were nonspecific. Toxicologic analysis showed a high concentration of MDEA and the appearance of benzodiazepines in body fluids. Ethanol and other drugs of abuse were not found. We discuss the clinical manifestations, toxicologic syndromes, and mechanisms of death with amphetamine intoxication. MDEA intoxication in young people may result in sudden death.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • 3,4-Methylenedioxyamphetamine / analogs & derivatives*
  • 3,4-Methylenedioxyamphetamine / metabolism
  • 3,4-Methylenedioxyamphetamine / poisoning
  • Adult
  • Chromatography, Gas / methods
  • Designer Drugs / poisoning*
  • Drug Overdose
  • Fatal Outcome
  • Female
  • Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry
  • Humans
  • Suicide*

Substances

  • Designer Drugs
  • 3,4-Methylenedioxyamphetamine
  • 3,4-methylenedioxyethamphetamine