Description :
The results of toxicological analyzes are used in death investigations to determine whether foreign substances were the cause of death, whether they contributed to death, or whether they caused impairment. The potential for postmortem changes should be considered in all but a few medications. Formation of new entities may occur as well as degradation of drugs, particularly in putrefied cadavers; In addition, body fluids and tissues may be severely affected by autolysis and putrefaction. Samples should be selected based on individual case history and availability. Analytical procedures should be performed in accordance with an appropriate quality assurance program for toxicology investigations.