Investigation and inquest
On 3 April 2013 I commenced an investigation into the death of Moses Andrew Arthur McDonald aged 30 years. The investigation concluded at the end of the inquest on 27 November 2014. The conclusion of the inquest was:
“The deceased died as a result of a rare but well-known complication associated with the anti-psychotic medication Clozapine contributed to by a lack of regular glucose testing.”
The case of death was given by the pathologist as:
1a. Aspiration of stomach content
1b. Diabetic ketoacidosis
Circumstances of the death
Mr McDonald had long been diagnosed with Paranoid Schizophrenia. In June 2012 he was prescribed Clozapine in tablet form 150 mg BD and was therefore required to attend for regular blood testing to monitor his white cell count. Mr McDonald regularly attended for these mandatory blood tests and nothing untoward was found. However, his first and last glucose test in May 2012 was recorded at 7.4 and thereafter he was not re-tested for his glucose levels either by the Clozapine clinic or by his GP (having missed his last annual health check-up in February 2013). In March 2013 Mr McDonald complained of frequent urination and extreme thirst whilst on holiday and after his return. On 2 April 2013 Mr McDonald was found deceased at his home address, not having undergone any glucose testing since May 2012.
Coroner’s concerns
I am aware of the steps that have already been taken to remedy area of concern in the Level One Investigation Report dated 15 August 2013 (draft). However, this does not address:
(1) The lack of mandatory and regular glucose testing while on antipsychotic medication by the Clozapine clinic.