The role of toxic substances in sudden cardiac death

Abstract The use of toxic substances is a main risk factor for sudden cardiac death. The most relevant toxic substances are the illegal drugs (especially cocaine), ethanol, tobacco, and doping substances. Additionally, several therapeutic drugs are able to increase the risk for sudden cardiac death. The aim of the present paper is to review the mechanism of action and the main pathological problems induced by toxic substances. Moreover, we provide epidemiological information, underlie the importance of a standardised forensic investigation, and discuss the role of forensic pathology in the prevention of this phenomenon. The possibility of consumption of any drug of abuse should be considered in any case of sudden cardiac death in adolescents, young, or middle-age patients, especially in men. In athletes the use of doping substances should be ruled-out. In patients under psychopharmacological treatment, the putative influence of these drugs should be borne in mind.