Two vials of a medication used to reverse the effects of the sedative midazolam were seized during a surprise search of the Kolonaki clinic where Greek singer Giorgos Mazonakis died on 9 September.
According to iefimerida.gr, the seized vials were identified as Demoxate, containing the active substance flumazenil. The same substance was among the eight compounds reportedly detected in toxicology tests conducted at the request of the singer's family.
The discovery is being examined as part of the ongoing investigation, although authorities stress that the presence of the vials does not in itself establish whether or how the medication was administered to Mazonakis.
Surprise search at the clinic
The search was carried out on Thursday in the presence of a judicial official following claims made by clinic employees during a television programme.
Staff alleged that items linked to the case, including the blanket used to cover the singer after his collapse, remained at the premises.
During the inspection, investigators located and confiscated the two Demoxate vials.
Three substances under scrutiny
The investigation is focused on three substances believed to have been administered during a sedation procedure:
- Midazolam, a benzodiazepine sedative used for sedation and anaesthesia.
- Flumazenil, a reversal agent used to counter the effects of benzodiazepines such as midazolam.
- Propofol, a powerful intravenous anaesthetic commonly used for sedation and general anaesthesia.
According to the report, investigators are examining witness statements from clinic staff and testimony from an anaesthesiologist who was allegedly consulted by telephone after the singer collapsed.
Toxicology tests commissioned by the family reportedly confirmed the presence of all three substances.
Experts weigh in
Speaking on SKAI television, geneticist Giorgos Fitsialos, a technical adviser to the family, said the combined use of propofol and midazolam could significantly enhance sedation.
He noted that factors such as dosage, method of administration and the patient's condition are crucial when assessing the findings.
Fitsialos suggested the evidence may indicate a scenario in which sedatives were administered, the singer collapsed and an attempt was then made to reverse the sedation using an antidote, without success.
He stressed, however, that this remains an expert assessment and not an established conclusion.
Forensic expert Grigoris Leon said that emergency medical services should have been notified immediately if a patient collapsed following the administration of powerful sedatives.
He added that propofol has no specific antidote and that treatment depends on rapid supportive care, particularly respiratory support and close monitoring of vital signs.
Further results awaited
Investigators are awaiting the final toxicology and histology reports, including detailed quantification of the substances detected in Mazonakis' system.
Those findings are expected to play a key role in determining the precise mechanism of death and assessing any role the administered medications may have played.
Source: iefimerida.gr
