A "theoretical" post-mortem redistribution factor (F) as a marker of post-mortem redistribution t

Abstract

Post-mortem redistribution (PMR) refers to the changes that can occur in drug concentrations after death. Literature supports a model describing drugs with a liver (L) to peripheral blood (P) concentration (L/P) ratio 20-30 L/kg have propensity for substantial PMR. In addition, the concept of a PMR (F) factor has been recently described to express the direct relationship between post-mortem peripheral blood and the corresponding antemortem whole-blood concentration. The current document expounds upon both these concepts by proposing the development of a "theoretical" PMR factor (Ft) for a drug based upon a drug's characteristic L/P ratio. This model for estimating potential of PMR was produced to assist with a credible interpretation of post-mortem drug concentrations.