Drugs in Murphy's System Legal, Suggest Treatment for a Cold

Drugs in Murphy's System Legal, Suggest Treatment for a Cold

Published: February 25, 2010 @ 3:34 pm
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By Josh Dickey

Brittany Murphy was found with multiple medications in her bloodstream at the time of her death, although each was legal -- and their combination suggested treatment of a cold or other respiratory infection, according to the Los Angeles County coroner's report.

However, the coroner classified the drugs as a factor in her death, according to the report, which was obtained by TheWrap. The substances included hydrocodone acetaminophen (components of Vicodin); chlorpheniramine (the active ingredient in some over-the-counter medications); and L-methamphetamine ( a component of some inhalers).

The report also says the 32-year-old "8 Mile" actress was weakened by her menstrual cycle; she had been complaining of severe abdominal cramps for more than a week before her Dec. 20 death.

An autopsy released in Decemberdiscovered multiple prescription medications of various kinds in Murphy's home, including anti-anxiety meds and antidepressants. None were found in excess in her system, however.

Her death was ruled an accident, with the reason being "community acquired pneumonia." Under other conditions contributing to the death, the coroner lists "iron deficiency anemia" and "multiple drug intoxication."

More to read: Brittany Murphy 'Barely There' on Recent Movie

Tags: Brittany Murphy, Movies
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