Actor Richard Norton's Death Linked to Unapproved Peptides, Coroner Rules
The martial arts legend died after injecting himself with peptides that were prescribed but used in excess of the recommended dosage.
A coroner has ruled that the death of Australian actor Richard Norton was "triggered by" his use of unapproved peptides. The 75-year-old martial arts expert, who trained Hollywood stars, died on March 30 of last year after collapsing and suffering cardiac arrest.
Coroner David Ryan found that Norton's death was a result of complications from the unapproved peptide products CJC-1295 and Ipamorelin. These peptides were prescribed by his doctor to treat symptoms including fatigue, reduced physical recovery, shoulder pain, and loss of lean muscle mass.
However, the inquest revealed that Norton had been taking amounts of the medication in excess of the prescribed dose. He informed a nurse at his doctor's clinic that he had been administering double the recommended dosage, and was advised to follow the prescribed amount.
Just hours after this conversation, Norton injected himself with CJC-1295 and Ipamorelin and subsequently became unresponsive. The coroner's report indicated that Norton had approached his practitioner, Dr. Jerzy Muchnicki, expressing interest in peptide therapy, and had previously been prescribed similar substances by another practitioner.
Dr. Muchnicki discussed the experimental nature of peptide therapy and its potential risks with Norton. Blood tests were conducted to confirm baseline health parameters and assess for contraindications. Norton signed an informed consent form before being prescribed the injectable peptides, which were prepared by a compounding pharmacy in Queensland.
Days before his death, Norton had reported to his doctor that the peptide therapy was improving his symptoms. The coroner has recommended that the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) review the benefits and safety risks of peptides like CJC-1295 and Ipamorelin, and consider imposing further restrictions on their use.
The TGA stated that it continues to warn consumers about the risks associated with unapproved peptides, which have not been assessed for safety, quality, or effectiveness. The agency noted that existing pathways allow medical practitioners to access unapproved peptides.
Norton, a renowned martial artist, began his career in judo at age 11 and earned a black belt in karate by 17. He worked as a martial arts instructor, stuntman, and fight trainer for numerous A-list actors, including Scarlett Johansson, Margot Robbie, and Ben Affleck. He also appeared in films and worked as a fight co-ordinator on major productions. His death is believed to be the first in Australia linked to the use of unapproved peptides.