The role of dextromethorphan in eight fatal overdoses: Is it solely a cutting substance for heroin or could it be something more?

The Authors evaluate the role of dextromethorphan as heroin adulterant. From December 2010 through April 2013, in our Laboratory of Forensic Toxicology of University of Catania, eight fatal overdose of heroin cut with dextromethorphan were observed. Our first case (December 2010) was the earliest report in Italy. For these reasons we focused our interest on this cutting substance, studying its pharmacological interaction with the depressive morphine action on central nervous system.