Problems of Forensic Sciences 2007 Vol. 71 (LXXI) 297-302
CLONAZEPAM - A DRUG USED FOR MEDICAL AND CRIMINAL PURPOSES
Ewa JANOWSKA, Piotr ADAMOWICZ, Ewa CHUDZIKIEWICZ, Wojciech LECHOWICZ
Institute of Forensic Research, Krakow, Poland
Streszczenie
Clonazepam is a benzodiazepine exhibiting anticonvulsive activity. It is used in epilepsy treatment. In the practice of the Institute of Forensic Research in Krakow, 57 cases involving clonazepam in biological material were recorded from 2003 to 2006. The highest number of cases (29) associated with its administration were noted in 2006. According to the Drug Addiction Counteraction Act of July 29, 2005, clonazepam is classified as being in group IV-P on the list of psychotropic substances. Analysis of the studied cases allows us to infer that this drug is used not only for medical purposes, but also by persons addicted to narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances in order to increase the effects of these drugs on the organism. Simultaneous consumption of clonazepam and ethyl alcohol induces interactions, thus increasing the toxic effects of these substances. This phenomenon is made use of for criminal purposes. Performed analyses show that clonazepam was the most frequently detected benzodiazepine derivative in blood during the last 4 years.
Słowa kluczowe
Clonazepam; Medicine; Psychotropic substance.