A heroin addict discharged himself from hospital because he feared going into withdrawal could trigger a heart attack, an inquest heard yesterday.
Philip Wright (30) from Abbey Farm, Celbridge, Co Kildare, died after collapsing in the bathroom of his family home on December 13th last year, a day after he discharged himself from Connolly hospital in Blanchardstown.
Dublin Coroner's Court heard that Mr Wright was taken off methadone while undergoing treatment for pneumonia at the hospital when it was found that the drug was significantly affecting his hearth rhythm. His cardiologist advised that he switch to a methadone alternative, Subutex, but this was not immediately available at the hospital.
He discharged himself against doctor's advice and went back to the family home on December 12th. He collapsed the following evening shortly after injecting himself with heroin and was unconscious when discovered.
Attempts to resuscitate him failed and he was pronounced dead at Connolly hospital.
Coroner Dr Brian Farrell adjourned the inquest for further hearing in January.