The trial of two Dublin men accused of murdering two Polish men in 2008 has been told that a combination of drugs and alcohol taken by one of the accused could cause aggression and rage.
Drugs expert Dr Brian Kirby said benzodiazepines were an anti-anxiety drug designed to have a calming effect.
However he said some studies had shown they could have the opposite effect, especially when combined with alcohol.
Yesterday one of the accused, David Curran, said he was 'out of his head' on drink and drugs the day he stabbed Pawel Kalite and Marious Swazjkos with a screwdriver.
The 19-year-old from Lissadel Green, Drimnagh, has pleaded not guilty to murdering them on 23 February, 2008 but guilty to their manslaughter.
His co-accused, 21-year-old Seán Keogh, of Vincent Street West, Inchicore, has pleaded not guilty to the double murder.
Closing speeches by the prosecution and defence will take place this afternoon.
The jury is expected to begin considering a verdict on Tuesday.
