Coroner: Weight loss drug did not cause death of former Commissioner

CONYERS - Use of an over-the-counter weight loss supplement was not to blame for the death of former Rockdale County Commission Chairman Randy Poynter, the coroner said. <br> <br> Poynter, 47, died Jan. 20 as the result of an accidental overdose of several ingredients found in common medications he was prescribed, according to the official coroner&#39;s report issued Tuesday. <br> <br> Ephedrine, a key ingredient in Metabolife, which Poynter had been taking to lose weight, ``had nothing to do with&#39;&#39; Poynter&#39;s death, Coroner Dr. Stephen Boyle said. <br> <br> Tests conducted by the Georgia Bureau of Investigation found that Poynter had traces of the stimulant ephedrine in his system, but also chemicals commonly found in anti-anxiety prescription drugs and pain pills. <br> <br> Poynter, a former Republican candidate for lieutenant governor, had announced a run for the County Commission chairmanship just before his death.

http://accesswdun.com/article/2002/2/198238