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| Randy Savage |
The autopsy revealed the presence of an enlarged heart and severe atherosclerosis of the coronary arteries. Savage sustained only minor injuries from the crash. (1) The toxicology report listed the presence of acetaminophen, caffeine, doxylamine, doxylamine metabolites, hydocodone, dihydrocodeine, and a blood alcohol concentration of 0.03 g/dL in Savage's system, although none were thought to play a role in his death. (2)
The findings of an enlarged heart and coronary artery disease are suspicious for anabolic androgenic steroid (AAS) use. Savage was known to have used AAS during his wrestling career. For related blogs see Randy Savage (November 15, 1952-May 20, 2011) and Anabolic androgenic steroids and heart disease.
It is difficult to interpret the findings of the toxicology report without knowledge of what over the counter and prescription medications Savage was taking. Several of the drugs are found in common pain medications. Acetaminophen is an analgesic best known by the brand name Tylenol. Acetaminophen can also be combined with other drugs such as hydrocodone (brand names Vicodin, Lortab, Lorcet) and caffeine/dihydrocodeine (brand names Panlor SS,Trezix, ZerLor).
Doxylamine is a first generation antihistamine that has sedating properties. It is the present in over the counter sleep aids such as Unisom. It is also the sedating ingredient in Nyquil.
The blood alcohol level of 0.03 g/dL is well below the level that would cause impairment.
References:
- http://www.examiner.com/fight-sports-in-national/final-details-on-the-death-and-autopsy-of-randy-macho-man-savage
- http://articles.cnn.com/2011-06-30/us/florida.macho.man.autopsy_1_heart-disease-autopsy-report-sudden-cardiac-death?_s=PM:US
Photographs are for illustrative purposes only. Wrestling with death does not claim ownership.
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