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Addiction to Drugs/drug overdose interactions

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Expert: - 11/17/2008


Question
My brother died in August of 2008 of an injected mixture of Valium and Methadone.  Nordiazepam (the metabolization of Valium, as I understand it) was postive at 223 ng/mL and Diazepasm at 131 ng/mL - the Methadone was 0.29 mg/L.  I am trying to figure out how many pills it would have taken of Valium and Methadone to reach these levels that killed him.  He had a legitimate prescription for Methadone but none for Valium.  I need this information to bring closure for me - his girlfriend takes Valium, but denies giving him any.  Can you tell me how many 10 mg Methadone pills = the 0.29 mg/L?  And how many valium = the metabolism of 223 ng/mL of nordiazepam?  Thank you, Broken Heart in Florida.

Answer
Dorothy,

I am so sorry for your loss and for your family.  I can't answer this question however because this is not my expertise. You could call a pharmacist or the forensics specialist for this answer. Good luck.
Sometimes loving someone and letting them rest and saying good bye is your closure.

Take Care.

Addiction to Drugs

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Crystal

Expertise

I can answer questions on substance abuse and addiction as well as possible ideas for abstinence and groups. I have been a substance abuse counseling specialist for 5 years. I cannot give medically diagnose but can give accurate advice and helpful ideas.

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I have been a substance abuse counselor for five years and have detoxed clients off of all drugs and alcohol.

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I have a minor in addiction,an A.A. in Juvenile Justice and am working on my B.A in Criminal Justice with addiction. I have worked with doctors who specialize in medical detox and have 10 years nursing field experience.

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