Comparison of Three Computer Models for Prediction of Dose in Acute Amitriptyline Overdose

• NCJ Number: 128097
• Journal: Journal of Forensic Sciences Volume: 36 Issue: 1 Dated: (January 1991) Pages: 153-165
• Author(s): G Wimbish; J Shores; V Spiehler
• Date Published: 1991
• Length: 9 pages
• Publication Format: Article
• Publication Type: Research (Applied/Empirical)
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America

Annotation

Two artificial intelligence programs are compared with a discriminant analysis program for accuracy in predicting dose from blood or plasma amitriptyline and nortriptyline concentrations. The programs used the same data from dogs given therapeutic, toxic, and fatal doses of amitriptyline.

Abstract

While all programs achieved a high success rate, ranging between 77 and 93 percent correct assignments, in recording data in the high, low, or middle dose groups, two programs also gave a probability associated with the outcome. The results indicate that blood amitriptyline and nortriptyline concentrations are most effective in estimating the dosage in acute amitriptyline overdoses. 6 tables, 6 figures, and 5 references (Author abstract modified)