Forensic value of phenobarbital, calcium and magnesium determination in vitreous humor]

The concentrations of phenobarbital, magnesium and total calcium vitreous humor obtained postmortem from sheep receiving phenobarbital, were investigated. Phenobarbital, 20 mg/kg bw was administered i.v. Two hours later the animals were killed. The vitreous humor from one eye was obtained immediately. The vitreous human from the second eye was obtained after 3 days storage of the head at 22 degrees C. The levels of phenobarbital were determined ba EMIT, calcium and magnesium levels by complexometric titration. The results showed a significant increase of the phenobarbital and magnesium concentrations after the postmortem interval. It appears from these data that the phenobarbital and also magnesium concentrations in vitreous humor can be useful in the evaluation of the time of death approximately in phenobarbital intoxications.