1
|
Fels H, Franz S, Dame T, Skopp G, Musshoff F. Step-By-Step Procedure to Identify Previously Unknown Compounds by LC-QTOF-MS Exemplified by an Intoxication With the Methaqualone Analog SL-164. Drug Test Anal 2024. [PMID: 39228339 DOI: 10.1002/dta.3792] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2024] [Revised: 08/05/2024] [Accepted: 08/19/2024] [Indexed: 09/05/2024]
Abstract
In September 2019, a 22-year-old man with a history of drug abuse presented to the hospital with altered mental status. Due to a suspected drug overdose, a blood sample taken on admission and a urine sample collected 30 h thereafter were submitted to our laboratory to test for illegal drugs, pharmaceutical substances, and designer drugs. During the routine toxicological analysis of the serum sample, morphine and phenobarbital were identified by liquid chromatography-quadrupole-time-of-flight mass spectrometry (LC-QTOF-MS). Additionally, two compounds showing identical accurate masses and isotope ratios as the designer benzodiazepine diclazepam and the benzodiazepine lormetazepam were found. However, retention times differed significantly from the expected values, and the acquired MS/MS spectra did not match the library entries of the two compounds, indicating the presence of two previously unknown substances. After further investigation, SL-164 (5-chloro-3-(4-chloro-2-methylphenyl)-2-methyl-4(3H)-quinazolinone), a methaqualone analog, which has recently emerged on the research chemical market, and its hydroxy metabolite were tentatively identified by accurate mass, isotope matching, and plausible fragmentation. However, for unequivocal confirmation and quantification, a reference standard is required. As no reference material was available by the end of 2019, SL-164 was obtained from an online shop, and its identity and purity (97.8%) were confirmed by nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy. The subsequent quantitative analysis revealed a concentration of 390 ng/mL SL-164 in serum. In the urine sample, the parent compound was not detected, but three suspected monohydroxylated metabolites were found. This example shows that LC-QTOF-MS is a powerful approach for the (tentative) identification of unknown compounds in biological matrices.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Helena Fels
- Forensic Toxicological Centre (FTC), Munich, Germany
| | - Simon Franz
- Forensic Toxicological Centre (FTC), Munich, Germany
| | - Torsten Dame
- Forensic Toxicological Centre (FTC), Munich, Germany
| | - Gisela Skopp
- Forensic Toxicological Centre (FTC), Munich, Germany
| | | |
Collapse
|
2
|
Aldubayyan AA, Castrignanò E, Elliott S, Abbate V. Short- and long-term stability of synthetic cathinones and dihydro-metabolites in human urine samples. Forensic Toxicol 2024; 42:172-180. [PMID: 38554217 PMCID: PMC11269387 DOI: 10.1007/s11419-024-00684-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2023] [Accepted: 02/25/2024] [Indexed: 04/01/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE Synthetic cathinones constitute the second largest group of new psychoactive substances, which are often used for recreational purposes and reported in toxicological analysis. Various factors may influence the stability of synthetic cathinones between sampling and analysis, and therefore, stability studies are required to determine the best storage conditions as well as extend the period of detection. METHODS This study involved sixteen synthetic cathinones and ten dihydro-metabolites spiked in human urine to evaluate the stability under common storage conditions to imitate real forensic toxicology samples. The samples were stored at either room temperature (22-23 °C) for up to 3 days, refrigerated (4 °C) for up to 14 days or frozen (-40 °C) for up to 12 months, and analyzed in triplicate using a validated liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry method. RESULTS Analytes' concentrations decreased over time, although slower when stored frozen. All analytes remained stable (> 80%) for 1 month when stored frozen before losses in content were more apparent for some compounds, depending on their chemical structure. Under all storage conditions, the highest instability was observed for analytes containing halogens (i.e., chlorine or fluorine). Thus, halogenated analytes were further investigated by using liquid chromatography coupled to quadruple time-of-flight mass spectrometry to attempt identifying degradation products. CONCLUSIONS Irrespective of parent analytes, dihydro-metabolites had improved stability at each tested temperature, which highlights their importance as appropriate urine biomarkers when retesting is required after a long period of storage.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Abdulaziz A Aldubayyan
- Department of Analytical, Environmental & Forensic Sciences, Faculty of Life Sciences & Medicine, King's College London, London, UK
- Department of Toxicology, Central Military Laboratory and Blood Bank, Prince Sultan Military Medical City, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Erika Castrignanò
- Department of Analytical, Environmental & Forensic Sciences, Faculty of Life Sciences & Medicine, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Simon Elliott
- Department of Analytical, Environmental & Forensic Sciences, Faculty of Life Sciences & Medicine, King's College London, London, UK
- Elliott Forensic Consulting, Birmingham, UK
| | - Vincenzo Abbate
- Department of Analytical, Environmental & Forensic Sciences, Faculty of Life Sciences & Medicine, King's College London, London, UK.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Brueckner I, Welter-Luedeke J, Zangl A, Graw M, Paul LD. α-Pyrrolidinohexanophenone (α-PHP) vs. α-pyrrolidinoisohexanophenone (α-PiHP): A toxicological investigation about plasma concentrations and behavior in forensic routine cases. J Anal Toxicol 2024; 48:299-313. [PMID: 38491987 DOI: 10.1093/jat/bkae011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2023] [Revised: 12/10/2023] [Accepted: 02/13/2024] [Indexed: 03/18/2024] Open
Abstract
New psychoactive substances (NPS), like pyrrolidinophenones, are still very present on the illegal drug market. The presented study reports on two members of this substance group, α-pyrrolidinohexanophenone (α-PHP) and α-pyrrolidinoisohexanophenone (α-PiHP), which occurred in forensic routine cases in the last 6 years. α-PHP could be detected predominantly by a validated liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS-MS) method in 33 authentic human plasma samples and α-PiHP in 8. α-PHP concentrations ranged from ca. 0.75 to 128 µg/L (mean: 23.2, median: 16.3) and α-PiHP concentrations from 7.33 to 118 µg/L (mean: 44.7, median: 33.7, quantified via α-PHP). Individuals were predominantly male and middle aged. As different studies have shown, some pyrrolidinophenones are able to cause aggressive behavior. Therefore, we set out to investigate the relation of α-PHP and α-PiHP plasma concentrations and the behavior of the consumers, reported by police and medical experts. Part of the subjects showed aggressive behavior, including agitation and restlessness. Lethargic and unremarkable behavior might be explained by co-consumption of other drugs, such as opiates/opioids, benzodiazepines, pregabalin or alcohol as well as by drug tolerance and subacute effects of stimulants. Multi-drug use could be detected in all cases; also stimulating substances and multiple different pyrrolidinophenones were determined. Nevertheless, users of α-PHP and α-PiHP showed a tendency to act aggressively, possibly triggered by a high selectivity for dopamine transporter inhibition. In accordance, committed offenses were often violent crimes. This might be considered in terms of toxicological assessment of criminal responsibility and driving ability.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Isabel Brueckner
- Department of Forensic Toxicology, Institute of Legal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität in Munich, Nussbaumstraße 26, Munich 80336, Germany
| | - Jessica Welter-Luedeke
- Department of Forensic Toxicology, Institute of Legal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität in Munich, Nussbaumstraße 26, Munich 80336, Germany
| | - Anna Zangl
- Department of Forensic Toxicology, Institute of Legal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität in Munich, Nussbaumstraße 26, Munich 80336, Germany
| | - Matthias Graw
- Department of Forensic Toxicology, Institute of Legal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität in Munich, Nussbaumstraße 26, Munich 80336, Germany
| | - Liane D Paul
- Department of Forensic Toxicology, Institute of Legal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität in Munich, Nussbaumstraße 26, Munich 80336, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Zimmerman-Federle H, Ren G, Dowling S, Warren C, Rusyniak D, Avera R, Manicke NE. Plasma drug screening using paper spray mass spectrometry with integrated solid phase extraction. Drug Test Anal 2024. [PMID: 38584344 DOI: 10.1002/dta.3687] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2024] [Revised: 03/04/2024] [Accepted: 03/14/2024] [Indexed: 04/09/2024]
Abstract
Drug overdoses have risen dramatically in recent years. We developed a simple nontargeted method using a disposable paper spray cartridge with an integrated solid phase extraction column. This method was used to screen for ~160 fentanyl analogs, synthetic cannabinoids, other synthetic drugs, and traditional drugs of abuse in over 300 authentic overdose samples collected at emergency departments in Indianapolis. A solid phase extraction step was implemented on the paper spray cartridge to enable subnanograms per milliliter synthetic drugs screening in plasma. Analysis was performed on a quadrupole orbitrap mass spectrometer using the sequential window acquisition of all theoretical fragment ion spectra approach in which tandem mass spectrometry was performed using 7 m/z isolation windows in the quadrupole. Calibration curves with isotopically labeled internal standards were constructed for 35 of the most frequently encountered synthetic and traditional illicit drugs by US toxicology labs. Additional qualitative-only drugs in a suspect screening list were also included. Limits of detection in plasma for synthetic cannabinoids ranged from 0.1 to 0.5 and 0.1 to 0.3 ng/mL for fentanyl and its analogs and between 1 and 5 ng/mL for most other drugs. Relative matrix effects were evaluated by determining the variation of the calibration slope in 10 different lots of biofluid and found to be between 3% and 20%. The method was validated on authentic overdose samples collected from two emergency departments in Indianapolis, Indiana, from suspected or known overdoses. Commonly detected synthetic drugs included fentanyl related substances, designer benzodiazepines such as flubromazolam, and the synthetic cannabinoid 5F-PB-22.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hannah Zimmerman-Federle
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA
| | - Greta Ren
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA
| | - Sarah Dowling
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA
| | - Cassandra Warren
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA
| | - Daniel Rusyniak
- School of Medicine, Indiana University, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA
| | - Robert Avera
- School of Medicine, Indiana University, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA
| | - Nicholas E Manicke
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Angerer V, Schmid Y, Franz F, Gnann H, Speer JM, Gnann A, Helmecke S, Buchwald A, Brandt SD, Passie T, Liechti ME, Auwärter V. Acute psychotropic, autonomic, and endocrine effects of 5,6-methylenedioxy-2-aminoindane (MDAI) compared with 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA) in human volunteers: A self-administration study. Drug Test Anal 2023. [PMID: 38056906 DOI: 10.1002/dta.3622] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2023] [Revised: 11/06/2023] [Accepted: 11/16/2023] [Indexed: 12/08/2023]
Abstract
The acute psychoactive, autonomic, and endocrine effects of the new psychoactive substance (NPS) 5,6-methylenedioxy-2-aminoindane (MDAI; 3.0 mg/kg, range 180-228 mg) were investigated in six healthy volunteers (four males, two females) in a non-blinded fashion without placebo. Subjective, cardiovascular, and endocrine responses were compared with two different doses of 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA) (75 mg and 125 mg) described in previously published placebo-controlled studies, which used identical outcome measures including Visual Analogue Scales (VAS), the Adjective Mood Rating Scale (AMRS), and the 5 Dimensions of Altered States of Consciousness (5D-ASC) scale. MDAI was well tolerated and produced subjective effects comparable with those of 125 mg MDMA. MDAI increased blood pressure similar to 125 mg MDMA but did not increase heart rate or body temperature. MDAI increased cortisol and prolactin levels and could be detected in serum about 20 min post ingestion and remained detectable at least for 4 days. In urine, MDAI was detectable over a period of at least 6 days. Further clinical investigations are warranted to assess whether MDAI could serve as drug with medicinal properties.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Verena Angerer
- Institute of Forensic Medicine, Medical Center - University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Yasmin Schmid
- Psychopharmacology Research, Division of Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology, Department of Biomedicine and Department of Clinical Research, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Florian Franz
- Institute of Forensic Medicine, Medical Center - University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | | | | | | | | | - Armin Buchwald
- Institute for Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine, Medical Center - University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Simon D Brandt
- School of Pharmacy and Biomolecular Sciences, Liverpool John Moores University, Liverpool, UK
| | - Torsten Passie
- Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
- Dr. Senckenberg Institute for History and Ethics in Medicine, Goethe-University Frankfurt/Main, Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Matthias E Liechti
- Psychopharmacology Research, Division of Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology, Department of Biomedicine and Department of Clinical Research, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Volker Auwärter
- Institute of Forensic Medicine, Medical Center - University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Yang Y, Liu D, Hua Z, Xu P, Wang Y, Di B, Liao J, Su M. Machine Learning-Assisted Rapid Screening of Four Types of New Psychoactive Substances in Drug Seizures. J Chem Inf Model 2023; 63:815-825. [PMID: 36645156 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jcim.2c01342] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
Over the past few years, new psychoactive substances (NPS) have become a global health and social problem because of their wide variety, constant structural renewal, vague legal definitions, and rapid adaptation to legal restrictions. The rapid structural modifications of NPS have posed significant challenges for the screening and identification of these new substances using traditional mass spectrometric techniques based on reference substances or a mass spectral database. Here, we propose supervised machine learning (ML) classification models such as k-nearest neighbors, support vector machine, random forest, and multigrained cascade forest for the rapid screening of NPS using mass spectrometric data. This approach utilizes ML methods to learn the statistical probability distributions of mass spectral data for NPS and non-NPS. Four classification ML models were generated and evaluated using a data set comprising 567 LC-MS and 732 GC-MS spectra. Through cross validation, we achieved an F1 score of 0.35-0.97. These algorithms were applied in conjunction with mass spectrometry techniques for the detection of six seizures including electronic cigarette oil and suspected powdered substances netted in drug trafficking cases. The models provided warning signals for synthetic cannabinoids, synthetic cathinones, and fentanyl. Thus, an early warning system was successfully established, which provided a useful method for reliable and effective identifications of unknown NPS.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yuqing Yang
- School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing210009, China.,China National Narcotics Control Commission - ChinaPharmaceutical University Joint Laboratory on Key Technologies of Narcotics Control, Nanjing210009, China
| | - Dongping Liu
- School of Science, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing210009, China
| | - Zhendong Hua
- China National Narcotics Control Commission - ChinaPharmaceutical University Joint Laboratory on Key Technologies of Narcotics Control, Nanjing210009, China.,Key Laboratory of Drug Monitoring and Control, Drug Intelligence and Forensic Center, Ministry of Public Security, Beijing100741, P. R. China
| | - Peng Xu
- China National Narcotics Control Commission - ChinaPharmaceutical University Joint Laboratory on Key Technologies of Narcotics Control, Nanjing210009, China.,Key Laboratory of Drug Monitoring and Control, Drug Intelligence and Forensic Center, Ministry of Public Security, Beijing100741, P. R. China
| | - Youmei Wang
- China National Narcotics Control Commission - ChinaPharmaceutical University Joint Laboratory on Key Technologies of Narcotics Control, Nanjing210009, China.,Key Laboratory of Drug Monitoring and Control, Drug Intelligence and Forensic Center, Ministry of Public Security, Beijing100741, P. R. China
| | - Bin Di
- School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing210009, China.,China National Narcotics Control Commission - ChinaPharmaceutical University Joint Laboratory on Key Technologies of Narcotics Control, Nanjing210009, China
| | - Jun Liao
- School of Science, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing210009, China
| | - Mengxiang Su
- School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing210009, China.,China National Narcotics Control Commission - ChinaPharmaceutical University Joint Laboratory on Key Technologies of Narcotics Control, Nanjing210009, China
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Development and validation of a chiral LC-MS/MS method for the separation and quantification of four synthetic cathinones in human whole blood and its application in stability analysis. Talanta 2023; 253:123986. [PMID: 36228559 DOI: 10.1016/j.talanta.2022.123986] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2022] [Revised: 09/27/2022] [Accepted: 09/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Synthetic cathinones, a subclass of new psychoactive substances, have gained high popularity on the recreational drugs market over the past years. These drugs typically have a chiral center, so they may exist as two stereoisomers. Therefore the pharmacological, pharmacokinetic or metabolic properties of their enantiomers are expected to differ. However, these drugs are often synthesized and sold as a racemic mixture, and as a consequence, differentiation of their (R)- and (S)- enantiomers is relevant in clinical and forensic toxicology. Information about single enantiomers of synthetic cathinones is relatively scarce due to challenges of their chiral analysis. Hence, a sensitive and reliable liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry method was developed and validated for the chiral separation and quantification of four synthetic cathinones in human whole blood samples. The method was fully validated in terms of linearity, limit of detection, limit of quantification, bias, precision, carryover, interferences, matrix effects, recovery and processed sample stability and successfully applied to evaluate the stability as well as enantioselective degradation of synthetic cathinones enantiomers under various storage conditions. For most of the analytes, significant enantioselective degradation was observed when stored at room temperature or refrigerated, with the E2-enantiomers observed to more rapidly degrade under both conditions. This is the first report concerning the stability and enantioselective degradation of synthetic cathinone enantiomers in whole blood. Moreover, the inversion study demonstrated enantiomeric inversion of R-(-)- and S-(+)-methylenedioxypyrovalerone (MDPV) in human whole blood and methanolic solution.
Collapse
|
8
|
Wang KD, Yuan XL, Liu C, Cao FQ, Zhang YR, Liu WB, He SY. Identification of three novel new psychoactive substances 4F-AB-BUTINACA, AB-PHETINACA, and 2F-NENDCK. Drug Test Anal 2023; 15:115-122. [PMID: 35986510 DOI: 10.1002/dta.3359] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2022] [Revised: 08/07/2022] [Accepted: 08/08/2022] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
The identification of new psychoactive substances (NPS) is an active and cutting-edge topic in forensic science. With the emergence of a large number of NPS, their timely identification to prevent spread can pose a challenge to clinical and forensic toxicology laboratories. Three emerging NPS had been identified in recently seized materials, including two synthetic cannabinoids [N-(1-amino-3-methyl-1-oxobutan-2-yl)-1-(4-fluorobutyl)-1H-indazole-3-carboxamide (4F-AB-BUTINACA) and N-(1-amino-3-methyl-1-oxobutan-2-yl)-1-phenethyl-1H-indazole-3-carboxamide (AB-PHETINACA)] and a ketamine-like substance [2-(2-fluorophenyl)-2-(ethylamino) cyclohexan-1-one(2F-NENDCK)]. The three compounds were first identified by Fourier transform infrared spectrometry (FT-IR), gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS), ultrahigh-performance liquid chromatography-quadrupole time-of-flight-mass spectrometry (UHPLC-QTOF-MS), and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR). These data may assist forensic analysts in analyzing the same substances or their homologous compounds.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kua-Dou Wang
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Crime Scene Evidence, Institute of Forensic Science, Shanghai Public Security Bureau, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiao-Liang Yuan
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Crime Scene Evidence, Shanghai Research Institute of Criminal Science and Technology, Shanghai, China
| | - Chen Liu
- Shanghai Punan Hospital, Shanghai, China
| | - Fang-Qi Cao
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Crime Scene Evidence, Shanghai Research Institute of Criminal Science and Technology, Shanghai, China
| | - Yu-Rong Zhang
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Crime Scene Evidence, Institute of Forensic Science, Shanghai Public Security Bureau, Shanghai, China
| | - Wen-Bin Liu
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Crime Scene Evidence, Shanghai Research Institute of Criminal Science and Technology, Shanghai, China
| | - Si-Yang He
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Crime Scene Evidence, Institute of Forensic Science, Shanghai Public Security Bureau, Shanghai, China
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Aldubayyan AA, Castrignanò E, Elliott S, Abbate V. Influence of long-term storage temperatures and sodium fluoride preservation on the stability of synthetic cathinones and dihydro-metabolites in human whole blood. Forensic Toxicol 2023; 41:81-93. [PMID: 36652059 PMCID: PMC9849191 DOI: 10.1007/s11419-022-00634-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2022] [Accepted: 07/16/2022] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Synthetic cathinones, one of the largest groups of new psychoactive substances, represent a large analytical and interpretative challenge in forensic laboratories. Of these is the synthetic cathinones' instability in different biological samples, which may lead to drug concentration discrepancies when interpreting toxicological findings. In this study, the stability of a panel of synthetic cathinones and their dihydro-metabolites (n = 26) together with internal standard was monitored in human whole blood stored at various temperatures over 6 months. The influence of sodium fluoride as a preservative in blood collection tubes was also investigated. METHODS Samples were extracted using a two-step liquid-liquid extraction technique, and analyzed using a validated liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry method following recommendations of published guidelines. RESULTS The influence of temperature over analytes' stability was an important element in whole blood samples, with - 40 °C being the best storage temperature for all tested analytes. Sodium fluoride did not significantly affect the stability of cathinones except at room temperature. Dihydro-metabolites displayed better stability in whole blood samples and remained detectable for a longer period of time under all tested conditions. CONCLUSIONS The data suggest that samples containing synthetic cathinones should be analyzed immediately, if possible. Alternatively, whole blood samples should be stored frozen (at - 40 °C or lower); however, (quantitative) results should be interpreted with caution after long-term storage. The data also promote the use of dihydro-metabolites as biomarkers for synthetic cathinones intake, as these reduced metabolites may be detected for longer period of time when compared with parent drugs in whole blood samples.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Abdulaziz A Aldubayyan
- Department of Analytical, Environmental and Forensic Sciences, Faculty of Life Sciences and Medicine, King's College London, London, UK
- Department of Toxicology, Central Military Laboratory and Blood Bank, Prince Sultan Military Medical City, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Erika Castrignanò
- Department of Analytical, Environmental and Forensic Sciences, Faculty of Life Sciences and Medicine, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Simon Elliott
- Department of Analytical, Environmental and Forensic Sciences, Faculty of Life Sciences and Medicine, King's College London, London, UK
- Elliott Forensic Consulting, Birmingham, UK
| | - Vincenzo Abbate
- Department of Analytical, Environmental and Forensic Sciences, Faculty of Life Sciences and Medicine, King's College London, London, UK.
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Hearne E, Atkinson A, Boardley I, McVeigh J, Van Hout MC. ‘Sustaining masculinity’: a scoping review of anabolic androgenic steroid use by older males. DRUGS: EDUCATION, PREVENTION AND POLICY 2022. [DOI: 10.1080/09687637.2022.2132135] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Evelyn Hearne
- Public Health Institute, Faculty of Health, Liverpool John Moores University, Liverpool, UK
| | - Amanda Atkinson
- Public Health Institute, Faculty of Health, Liverpool John Moores University, Liverpool, UK
| | - Ian Boardley
- Department of Sociology, Manchester Metropolitan University, Manchester, UK
| | - Jim McVeigh
- School of Sport Exercise & Rehabilitation Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Marie Claire Van Hout
- Public Health Institute, Faculty of Health, Liverpool John Moores University, Liverpool, UK
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Wagmann L, Jacobs CM, Meyer MR. New Psychoactive Substances: Which Biological Matrix Is the Best for Clinical Toxicology Screening? Ther Drug Monit 2022; 44:599-605. [PMID: 35175247 DOI: 10.1097/ftd.0000000000000974] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2021] [Accepted: 12/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Every year, more new psychoactive substances (NPSs) emerge in the market of the drugs of abuse. NPSs belong to various chemical classes, such as synthetic cannabinoids, phenethylamines, opioids, and benzodiazepines. The detection of NPSs intake using different types of biological matrices is challenging for clinical toxicologists because of their structural diversity and the lack of information on their toxicokinetics, including their metabolic fate. METHODS PubMed-listed articles reporting mass spectrometry-based bioanalytical approaches for NPSs detection published during the past 5 years were identified and discussed. Furthermore, the pros and cons of using common biological matrices in clinical toxicology (CT) settings to screen for NPSs are highlighted in this review article. RESULTS Twenty-six articles presenting multianalyte screening methods for use in the field of CT were considered. The advantages and disadvantages of different biological matrices are discussed with a particular view of the different analytical tasks in CT, especially emergency toxicology. Finally, an outlook introduces the emerging trends in biosamples used in CT, such as the exhaled breath. CONCLUSIONS Blood and urine represent the most common biological matrices used in a CT setting; however, reports concerning NPSs detection in alternative matrices are also available. Noteworthy, the selection of the biological matrix must depend on the clinician's enquiry because the individual advantages and disadvantages must be considered.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lea Wagmann
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Toxicology, Institute of Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology, Center for Molecular Signaling (PZMS), Saarland University, Homburg, Germany
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
12
|
Gampfer TM, Wagmann L, Pulver B, Westphal F, Flockerzi V, Meyer MR. A simplified strategy to assess the cytotoxicity of new psychoactive substances in HepG2 cells using a high content screening assay - Exemplified for nine compounds. Toxicology 2022; 476:153258. [PMID: 35842060 DOI: 10.1016/j.tox.2022.153258] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2022] [Revised: 06/27/2022] [Accepted: 07/11/2022] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
Abstract
New psychoactive substances (NPS) are an issue of global concern posing a serious threat to the healthcare systems. Consumption of some NPS has been associated with toxic effects on the liver amongst others. However, data concerning their (cyto-)toxicity are usually not available. For a straightforward assessment of their cytotoxic potential, a simplified strategy measuring six different cytotoxicity indicating parameters simultaneously by a high content screening assay (HCSA) was developed. Its applicability was further investigated using nine NPS from heterogeneous chemical classes. HepG2 cells were incubated with NPS for 48 h at a low and high concentration (7.81 and 125 µM), respectively. To study metabolism-mediated effects on their cytotoxicity, cells were additionally incubated with the unspecific cytochrome (CYP) P450 inhibitor 1-aminobenzotriazole. Four fluorescence dyes were used to monitor cell count, nuclear size, and nuclear intensity (all Hoechst33342), mitochondrial membrane potential (TMRM), cytoplasmic calcium levels (CAL-520), and plasma membrane integrity (TOTO-3). Amongst the investigated NPS, ephylone, CUMYL-CBMICA, and dibutylone showed a strong cytotoxic potential, affecting two parameters at 7.81 µM. 5-MeO-MiPT showed moderate effects by impairing one parameter at 7.81 and one at 125 µM. Furthermore, at the high concentration of 5-MeO-MiPT, an effect of metabolism on cytotoxicity was observed. The HCSA confirmed the cytotoxic potential of ephylone and 5-MeO-MiPT, as the investigated concentrations were in the range of their published blood concentrations which induced liver damages after intake. The mitochondrial membrane potential was the parameter with the highest sensitivity and thus considered as suitable "cytobiomarker". In turn, parameters showing a high variability or unexpected effects such as cytosolic calcium levels and plasma membrane integrity might be omitted in the future. Even though 5-MeO-MiPT showed metabolism-based effects, HepG2 are known to have limited metabolic activity compared to cell lines such as HepaRG. Therefore, in further experiments cell lines with higher CYP-expression needs to be included and findings compared. Nevertheless, the simplified HCSA-based strategy allowed to screen NPS from diverse chemical groups for a first assessment of the cytotoxic properties of the parent compound. This information is crucial for a thorough risk assessment of NPS not only for public health authorities.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tanja M Gampfer
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Toxicology, Institute of Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology, Center for Molecular Signaling (PZMS), Saarland University, Homburg, Germany
| | - Lea Wagmann
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Toxicology, Institute of Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology, Center for Molecular Signaling (PZMS), Saarland University, Homburg, Germany
| | - Benedikt Pulver
- State Bureau of Criminal Investigation Schleswig-Holstein, Forensic Science Institute, Kiel, Germany; Institute of Forensic Medicine, Forensic Toxicology, Medical Center-University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany; Herrmann Staudinger Graduate School, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Folker Westphal
- State Bureau of Criminal Investigation Schleswig-Holstein, Forensic Science Institute, Kiel, Germany
| | - Veit Flockerzi
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology, Institute of Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology, Center for Molecular Signaling (PZMS), Saarland University, Homburg, Germany
| | - Markus R Meyer
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Toxicology, Institute of Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology, Center for Molecular Signaling (PZMS), Saarland University, Homburg, Germany.
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Pulver B, Fischmann S, Westphal F, Schönberger T, Schäper J, Budach D, Jacobsen-Bauer A, Dreiseitel W, Zagermann J, Damm A, Knecht S, Opatz T, Auwärter V, Pütz M. The ADEBAR project - European and international provision of analytical data from structure elucidation and analytical characterization of NPS. Drug Test Anal 2022; 14:1491-1502. [PMID: 35524160 DOI: 10.1002/dta.3280] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2022] [Revised: 05/04/2022] [Accepted: 05/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
Novel substances for which none or limited analytical data are available constitute a challenge for police and customs forensic laboratories. The time-consuming process of structural elucidation and acquisition of analytical data has been centralized in the ADEBAR project in Germany, co-funded since 2017 by the EU's Internal Security Fund. The project aims to comprehensively characterize substances relevant for forensic-toxicological casework within the analytical competence network. The analytical datasets are distributed digitally through European and (inter-) national channels. Additionally, pharmacological evaluation allows for estimating in vivo potency and potential harm required as scientific evidence for legislative amendments. The ADEBAR project contributes to the availability of analytical data on new substances relevant to the daily work of police and customs laboratories. Since the inception of the ADEBAR project, 549 samples have been registered, and 302 substance reports notified to the EMCDDA, including numerous spectrometric and spectroscopic data. In addition, 3619 mass spectra have been accumulated in ADEBAR mass spectra databases. A central institution for the structure elucidation and acquisition of valid, high-quality analytical data for police and customs forensic laboratories and forensic medicine institutes is important in the future because there does not seem to be an end to the dynamic of novel NPS appearing on the drug market.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Benedikt Pulver
- State Bureau of Criminal Investigation Schleswig-Holstein, Kiel, Germany.,Institute of Forensic Medicine, Forensic Toxicology, Medical Center - University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Germany
| | - Svenja Fischmann
- State Bureau of Criminal Investigation Schleswig-Holstein, Kiel, Germany
| | - Folker Westphal
- State Bureau of Criminal Investigation Schleswig-Holstein, Kiel, Germany
| | | | - Jan Schäper
- Bavarian State Bureau of Criminal Investigation, Munich, Germany
| | - Dennis Budach
- State Bureau of Criminal Investigation Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | | | | | - Johannes Zagermann
- State Bureau of Criminal Investigation North Rhine-Westphalia, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Angela Damm
- State Bureau of Criminal Investigation Rhineland-Palatinate, Mainz, Germany
| | | | - Till Opatz
- Department of Chemistry, Organic Chemistry Section, Johannes Gutenberg University, Mainz, Germany
| | - Volker Auwärter
- Institute of Forensic Medicine, Forensic Toxicology, Medical Center - University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Germany
| | - Michael Pütz
- Federal Criminal Police Office (BKA), Wiesbaden, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
A Quantitative LC–MS/MS Method for the Detection of 16 Synthetic Cathinones and 10 Metabolites and Its Application to Suspicious Clinical and Forensic Urine Samples. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2022; 15:ph15050510. [PMID: 35631341 PMCID: PMC9145040 DOI: 10.3390/ph15050510] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2022] [Revised: 04/17/2022] [Accepted: 04/17/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Synthetic cathinones currently represent one of the most predominant (sub)-classes of new psychoactive substance (NPS) in illicit drug markets. Despite the increased concerns caused by the constant introduction of new analogues, these drugs are not commonly assayed in routine drug testing procedures and may not be detected in standard screening procedures. This study presents a validated liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (LC–MS/MS) method for the detection and quantification of 16 synthetic cathinones and 10 metabolites in human urine. Methods: The method was validated for all analytes using published guidelines. The evaluated parameters achieved acceptable values according to the set criteria. Potential abuse of synthetic cathinones was investigated in suspicious urine samples from Saudi Arabia originating from workplace drug testing, pre-employment and Accident & Emergency (A&E). Such samples generated a presumptive positive immunoassay for amphetamine; however, they yielded a negative LC–MS/MS confirmation for this analyte, following the recommended cutoff values of Substance of Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) guidelines. Results: 5.8% of the analyzed samples were found to contain at least one target analyte, namely mephedrone and N-ethylpentylone, as well as their dihydro-metabolites. The results also revealed polydrug use with the synthetic cathinones being present together with other classical stimulant drugs. Conclusions: This is the first report of NPS use in Saudi Arabia with respect to designer stimulant drugs. Confirmatory urine analyses for suspicious stimulant use should extend beyond classical stimulants to cover a broad range of NPSs and their metabolites in order to report any otherwise potentially undetected/new analyte.
Collapse
|
15
|
Musiał J, Czarny J, Gadzała-Kopciuch R. Overview of analytical methods for determining novel psychoactive substances, drugs and their metabolites in biological samples. Crit Rev Toxicol 2022; 52:239-258. [PMID: 36040410 DOI: 10.1080/10408444.2022.2091424] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
Recent years have witnessed a growing in interest in psychoactive substances, particularly those available in e-commerce. These have led to an increase in the number of drug-related poisonings, deaths, and road accidents. Illegal drugs are available on an unprecedented scale and cause previously unknown adverse effects, which creates a challenge for analysts to find rapid methods for identifying these substances and taking appropriate action in the shortest possible time. New psychoactive substances (NPSs) can be lethal at very low concentrations, which give particularly serious cause for concern. These drugs are easily accessible and often regarded (or claimed) to be safe, which encourages many people, in particular young people, to try them. The widespread use of these substances is compounded by the awareness that they are difficult to detect with the existing rapid screening tests. Simple, fast, sensitive, and specific methods for determining the largest possible number of black-market psychoactive substances and their metabolites are therefore essential. Such methods will facilitate treatment and increase the effectiveness of measures aiming to reduce drug addiction. The objective of this review article was to critically compare the most commonly used analytical methods for determining NPS and their metabolites in biological material, with special emphasis on the sample preparation process, and to highlight the possibilities offered by the existing analytical methods.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jadwiga Musiał
- Institute of Forensic Genetics, Bydgoszcz, Poland.,Department of Environmental Chemistry and Bioanalytics, Faculty of Chemistry, Nicolaus Copernicus University in Toruń, Toruń, Poland
| | - Jakub Czarny
- Institute of Forensic Genetics, Bydgoszcz, Poland
| | - Renata Gadzała-Kopciuch
- Department of Environmental Chemistry and Bioanalytics, Faculty of Chemistry, Nicolaus Copernicus University in Toruń, Toruń, Poland
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
A deep generative model enables automated structure elucidation of novel psychoactive substances. NAT MACH INTELL 2021. [DOI: 10.1038/s42256-021-00407-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
|
17
|
Kolaczynska KE, Thomann J, Hoener MC, Liechti ME. The Pharmacological Profile of Second Generation Pyrovalerone Cathinones and Related Cathinone Derivative. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22158277. [PMID: 34361040 PMCID: PMC8348686 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22158277] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2021] [Revised: 07/29/2021] [Accepted: 07/29/2021] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Pyrovalerone cathinones are potent psychoactive substances that possess a pyrrolidine moiety. Pyrovalerone-type novel psychoactive substances (NPS) are continuously detected but their pharmacology and toxicology are largely unknown. We assessed several pyrovalerone and related cathinone derivatives at the human norepinephrine (NET), dopamine (DAT), and serotonin (SERT) uptake transporters using HEK293 cells overexpressing each respective transporter. We examined the transporter-mediated monoamine efflux in preloaded cells. The receptor binding and activation potency was also assessed at the 5-HT1A, 5-HT2A, 5-HT2B, and 5-HT2C receptors. All pyrovalerone cathinones were potent DAT (IC50 = 0.02-8.7 μM) and NET inhibitors (IC50 = 0.03-4.6 μM), and exhibited no SERT activity at concentrations < 10 μM. None of the compounds induced monoamine efflux. NEH was a potent DAT/NET inhibitor (IC50 = 0.17-0.18 μM). 4F-PBP and NEH exhibited a high selectivity for the DAT (DAT/SERT ratio = 264-356). Extension of the alkyl chain enhanced NET and DAT inhibition potency, while presence of a 3,4-methylenedioxy moiety increased SERT inhibition potency. Most compounds did not exhibit any relevant activity at other monoamine receptors. In conclusion, 4F-PBP and NEH were selective DAT/NET inhibitors indicating that these substances likely produce strong psychostimulant effects and have a high abuse liability.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Karolina E. Kolaczynska
- Division of Psychopharmacology Research, Department of Biomedicine, University Hospital Basel and University of Basel, 4031 Basel, Switzerland; (K.E.K.); (J.T.)
| | - Jan Thomann
- Division of Psychopharmacology Research, Department of Biomedicine, University Hospital Basel and University of Basel, 4031 Basel, Switzerland; (K.E.K.); (J.T.)
| | - Marius C. Hoener
- Neuroscience Research, pRED, Roche Innovation Center Basel, F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd., 4070 Basel, Switzerland;
| | - Matthias E. Liechti
- Division of Psychopharmacology Research, Department of Biomedicine, University Hospital Basel and University of Basel, 4031 Basel, Switzerland; (K.E.K.); (J.T.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: + 41-61-328-68-68
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Brennan R, Wazaify M, Shawabkeh H, Boardley I, McVeigh J, Van Hout MC. A Scoping Review of Non-Medical and Extra-Medical Use of Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs). Drug Saf 2021; 44:917-928. [PMID: 34331260 PMCID: PMC8370940 DOI: 10.1007/s40264-021-01085-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are among the most commonly used medications worldwide and have analgesic, antipyretic and anti-inflammatory properties. Although NSAIDs are recognised as generally safe and effective, non-medical and extra-medical use of these products can occur. Unlike the use of illegal and many prescription drugs, which are subject to extensive research attention, inappropriate use of NSAIDs has been less well investigated. This scoping review collates and describes what is known regarding non-medical and extra-medical use of NSAIDs. In total, 72 studies were included in this scoping review. Three themes emerged from the review: (1) indicative profile of people who engage in non-medical or extra-medical use of NSAIDs; (2) antecedents for non-medical or extra-medical use; and (3) adverse health effects of non-medical and extra-medical use of NSAIDs. The review concluded that there is a need for enhanced patient education, including among sports people; pharmacovigilance in terms of clinician recognition of aberrance; and prescriber and pharmacist awareness of the potential for extra-medical and non-medical use and the related health harms.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rebekah Brennan
- School of Applied Social Studies, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland.
| | - Mayyada Wazaify
- Department of Biopharmaceutics and Clinical Pharmacy, School of Pharmacy, The University of Jordan, Amman, Jordan
| | - Haneen Shawabkeh
- Department of Biopharmaceutics and Clinical Pharmacy, School of Pharmacy, The University of Jordan, Amman, Jordan
| | - Ian Boardley
- School of Sport, Exercise and Rehabilitation Sciences, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham, UK
| | - Jim McVeigh
- Substance Use & Associated Behaviours, Department of Sociology, Manchester Metropolitan University, Manchester, UK
| | - Marie Claire Van Hout
- Faculty of Health, Public Health Institute, Liverpool John Moore's University, Liverpool, UK
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Batistic FK, Rhumorbarbe D, Lefrancois E, Tettey J, Raithelhuber M, Rossy Q, Morelato M. Analysis of Google Trends to monitor new psychoactive substance. Is there an added value? Forensic Sci Int 2021; 326:110918. [PMID: 34325112 DOI: 10.1016/j.forsciint.2021.110918] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2021] [Revised: 07/16/2021] [Accepted: 07/18/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
The past decade has seen an increase in the development and availability of a broad category of drugs, known as new psychoactive substances (NPS). NPS are challenging for public health authorities, therefore the two major drug monitoring bodies - the European Monitoring Centre for Drugs and Drug Addiction (EMCDDA) and the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) - have implemented the EU Early Warning System (EWS) and Early Warning Advisory (EWA), respectively. While these monitoring systems are informative, it is difficult to keep up with the constant and rapid developmental rate of NPS. The EMCDDA has recognised the need for an alternative and technologically derived early warning system. The aim of this research is to determine whether Google Trends and drug discussion forum data can be used to complement early warning systems for NPS. Forty-eight substances were used in this study and classed into groups based on their chemical structure, following the UNODC classification system. Google Trends data (time range: 2004-2019) and drug forum data (time range: 2003-2018) were extracted for each substance and visual trend profiles were created for class groups as well as individual substances. Analysis was conducted to determine when a substance first appeared on Google Trends and a drug discussion forum as well as their trends over time. This date of first appearance was then compared to the date the substance was first reported to UNODC. Of the three data sources utilised, substances were most likely to appear on Google Trends first. Amongst the different classes of NPS, discernible trends ('block', 'successive', and 'generational' trends) were observed. These trends reflect the evolution of the manufacture of substances or generations of substances that has been observed in the literature. For example, in the synthetic cannabinoids' category, a generational trend is observed that corresponds to the different generations of synthetic cannabinoids. When comparing Google Trends and Drugs-Forum directly, the order of appearance and duration of presence for substances aligns accurately for most classes. Google Trends showed the emergence, persistence, or transient nature of substances, which could direct the focus of law enforcement, health organisation and laboratory resources towards a limited number of substances. When one considers the reliance of individual information seeking on the Web as well as the prominence of NPS on the Web, it becomes clear that Google Trends and drug discussion forums could be used as a complement to current early warning systems.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Frana-Katica Batistic
- Centre for Forensic Science, School of Mathematical and Physical Sciences, University of Technology Sydney, Australia.
| | - Damien Rhumorbarbe
- Ecole des Sciences Criminelles, Faculty of Law, Criminal Justice and Public Administration, University of Lausanne, Switzerland.
| | - Elodie Lefrancois
- Ecole des Sciences Criminelles, Faculty of Law, Criminal Justice and Public Administration, University of Lausanne, Switzerland.
| | - Justice Tettey
- Laboratory and Scientific Section, Division for Policy Analysis and Public Affairs, United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime, Vienna International Centre, Vienna, Austria.
| | - Martin Raithelhuber
- Laboratory and Scientific Section, Division for Policy Analysis and Public Affairs, United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime, Vienna International Centre, Vienna, Austria.
| | - Quentin Rossy
- Ecole des Sciences Criminelles, Faculty of Law, Criminal Justice and Public Administration, University of Lausanne, Switzerland.
| | - Marie Morelato
- Centre for Forensic Science, School of Mathematical and Physical Sciences, University of Technology Sydney, Australia.
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Wallace B, Hills R, Rothwell J, Kumar D, Garber I, van Roode T, Larnder A, Pagan F, Aasen J, Weatherston J, Gozdzialski L, Ramsay M, Burek P, Azam MS, Pauly B, Storey MA, Hore D. Implementing an integrated multi-technology platform for drug checking: Social, scientific, and technological considerations. Drug Test Anal 2021; 13:734-746. [PMID: 33646611 DOI: 10.1002/dta.3022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2020] [Revised: 02/19/2021] [Accepted: 02/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
The illicit drug overdose crisis in North America continues to devastate communities with fentanyl detected in the majority of illicit drug overdose deaths. The COVID-19 pandemic has heightened concerns of even greater unpredictability in the drug supplies and unprecedented rates of overdoses. Portable drug-checking technologies are increasingly being integrated within overdose prevention strategies. These emerging responses are raising new questions about which technologies to pursue and what service models can respond to the current risks and contexts. In what has been referred to as the epicenter of the overdose crisis in Canada, a multi-technology platform for drug checking is being piloted in community settings using a suite of chemical analytical methods to provide real-time harm reduction. These include infrared absorption, Raman scattering, gas chromatography with mass spectrometry, and antibody-based test strips. In this Perspective, we illustrate some advantages and challenges of using multiple techniques for the analysis of the same sample, and provide an example of a data analysis and visualization platform that can unify the presentation of the results and enable deeper analysis of the results. We also highlight the implementation of a various service models that co-exist in a research setting, with particular emphasis on the way that drug checking technicians and harm reduction workers interact with service users. Finally, we provide a description of the challenges associated with data interpretation and the communication of results to a diverse audience.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bruce Wallace
- School of Social Work, University of Victoria, Victoria, British Columbia, Canada.,Canadian Institute for Substance Use Research, University of Victoria, Victoria, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Rory Hills
- Department of Chemistry, University of Victoria, Victoria, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Jake Rothwell
- Department of Chemistry, University of Victoria, Victoria, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Deepak Kumar
- Department of Chemistry, University of Victoria, Victoria, British Columbia, Canada.,Department of Computer Science, University of Victoria, Victoria, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Ian Garber
- Department of Chemistry, University of Victoria, Victoria, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Thea van Roode
- Canadian Institute for Substance Use Research, University of Victoria, Victoria, British Columbia, Canada.,Department of Chemistry, University of Victoria, Victoria, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Ashley Larnder
- Department of Chemistry, University of Victoria, Victoria, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Flora Pagan
- Canadian Institute for Substance Use Research, University of Victoria, Victoria, British Columbia, Canada.,Department of Chemistry, University of Victoria, Victoria, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Jarred Aasen
- Canadian Institute for Substance Use Research, University of Victoria, Victoria, British Columbia, Canada.,Department of Chemistry, University of Victoria, Victoria, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Jorin Weatherston
- Department of Chemistry, University of Victoria, Victoria, British Columbia, Canada.,Department of Computer Science, University of Victoria, Victoria, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Lea Gozdzialski
- Department of Chemistry, University of Victoria, Victoria, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Margo Ramsay
- Department of Chemistry, University of Victoria, Victoria, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Piotr Burek
- Canadian Institute for Substance Use Research, University of Victoria, Victoria, British Columbia, Canada.,Department of Chemistry, University of Victoria, Victoria, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Md Shafiul Azam
- Department of Chemistry, University of Victoria, Victoria, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Bernie Pauly
- Canadian Institute for Substance Use Research, University of Victoria, Victoria, British Columbia, Canada.,School of Nursing, University of Victoria, Victoria, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Margaret-Anne Storey
- Department of Computer Science, University of Victoria, Victoria, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Dennis Hore
- Department of Chemistry, University of Victoria, Victoria, British Columbia, Canada.,Department of Computer Science, University of Victoria, Victoria, British Columbia, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Identification and Analytical Characterization of a Novel Synthetic Cannabinoid-Type Substance in Herbal Material in Europe. Molecules 2021; 26:molecules26040793. [PMID: 33546439 PMCID: PMC7913736 DOI: 10.3390/molecules26040793] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2020] [Revised: 01/29/2021] [Accepted: 02/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The rapid diffusion of new psychoactive substances (NPS) presents unprecedented challenges to both customs authorities and analytical laboratories involved in their detection and characterization. In this study an analytical approach to the identification and structural elucidation of a novel synthetic cannabimimetic, quinolin-8-yl-3-[(4,4-difluoropiperidin-1-yl) sulfonyl]-4-methylbenzoate (2F-QMPSB), detected in seized herbal material, is detailed. An acid precursor 4-methyl-3-(4,4-difluoro-1-piperidinylsulfonyl) benzoic acid (2F-MPSBA), has also been identified in the same seized material. After extraction from the herbal material the synthetic cannabimimetic, also referred to as synthetic cannabinoid receptor agonists or “synthetic cannabinoids”, was characterized using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS), 1H, 13C, 19F and 15N nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) and high-resolution tandem mass spectrometry (HR-MS/MS) combined with chromatographic separation. A cheminformatics platform was used to manage and interpret the analytical data from these techniques.
Collapse
|
22
|
Shapira B, Berkovitz R, Rosca P, Lev-Ran S, Kaptsan A, Neumark Y. Why Switch? - Motivations for Self-Substitution of Illegal Drugs. Subst Use Misuse 2021; 56:627-638. [PMID: 33663337 DOI: 10.1080/10826084.2021.1887246] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Self-substitution is the conscious switch from one drug to another for reasons such as price, availability, desired effect, or perceived benefit of the substitute drug. Purpose/Objectives: This study aimed to describe drug use patterns and motivations associated with substitution. We examined correlates of lifetime substitution among individuals with substance use disorder. Methods: A cross-sectional study of 771 treatment-enrolled individuals. We used self-report for determining the lifetime prevalence, correlates, and motivations for substitution. Results: Of the 771 respondents, 570 (73.9%) reported ever substituting their preferred substance. The main incentives for substitution were availability (23.7%) and curiosity (20.2%). Among heroin or cannabis preferers, improved effects or less adverse effects of the substitute drug, self-medication, and managing withdrawal symptoms were significant substitution incentives. Increased odds for substitution were observed for past 12 months use of cannabis (OR = 1.51, CI = 1.06-4.52), prescription opioids (OR = 2.86, CI = 1.81-4.52), novel psychoactive substances (OR = 2.68, CI = 1.64-4.36), and repeated admission (OR = 1.50, CI = 1.05-2.14). Older age at onset-of-use was negatively associated with substitution (OR = 0.95, CI = 0.93-0.98). Conclusions: Self-substitution of one substance for another is a highly prevalent behavior among treatment-enrolled patients with substance use disorder. Clinicians caring for substance use disorder patients should be aware of substitution patterns involving the use of highly potent substances, which constitutes a risk to patients. Results underscore the benefit of substitution patterns analyses, as they reveal important information on the characteristics of persons who use drugs and their motivations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Barak Shapira
- Hebrew University-Hadassah Braun School of Public Health and Community Medicine, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Ronny Berkovitz
- Division of Enforcement and Inspection, Israel Ministry of Health, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Paola Rosca
- Department for the Treatment of Substance Abuse, Israel Ministry of Health, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Shaul Lev-Ran
- Lev Hasharon Medical Center, Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel-Aviv, Israel
| | - Alexander Kaptsan
- Dual Diagnosis Department, Be'er Sheva Mental Health Center, Negev, Be'er Sheva, Israel.,Ben Gurion University of the Negev, Be'er Sheva, Israel
| | | |
Collapse
|
23
|
Aldubayyan AA, Castrignanò E, Elliott S, Abbate V. Stability of synthetic cathinones in clinical and forensic toxicological analysis-Where are we now? Drug Test Anal 2020; 13:44-68. [PMID: 33283466 DOI: 10.1002/dta.2990] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2020] [Revised: 11/28/2020] [Accepted: 12/03/2020] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Understanding the stability of analyzed drugs in biological samples is a crucial part for an appropriate interpretation of the analytical findings. Synthetic cathinones, as psychoactive stimulants, belong to a major class of new psychoactive substances. As they are subject to several degradation pathways, they are known to clinical and forensic toxicologists as unstable analytes in biological samples. When interpreting analytical data of synthetic cathinones in biological samples, analysts must be aware that the concentration of analytes may not accurately reflect the levels at the time they were acquired owing to many factors. This review provides (i) an overview of the current scientific knowledge on the stability of synthetic cathinones and/or metabolites in various human biological samples with a focus on factors that may deteriorate their stability-such as storage temperature, length of storage, matrix, pH, type of preservatives, concentration of analytes, and the chemistry of the analytes-and (ii) possible solutions on how to avoid such degradation. The PubMed database as well as Google Scholar was thoroughly searched to find published studies on the stability of synthetic cathinones since 2007 by searching specific keywords. A total of 23 articles met the inclusion criteria and were included in this review. Synthetic cathinones that carry methylenedioxy or N-pyrrolidine ring showed higher degradation resistance over other substituted groups. Acidification of samples pH plays a crucial role at increasing the stability of cathinones even with analytes that were frequently considered as poorly stable. This review also provides several recommendations for best practice in planning the experimental design, preservation, and storage conditions in order to minimize synthetic cathinones' degradation in human biological samples.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Abdulaziz A Aldubayyan
- Department of Analytical, Environmental & Forensic Sciences, Faculty of Life Sciences & Medicine, King's College London, London, UK.,Department of Toxicology, Central Military Laboratory and Blood Bank, Prince Sultan Military Medical City, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Erika Castrignanò
- Department of Analytical, Environmental & Forensic Sciences, Faculty of Life Sciences & Medicine, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Simon Elliott
- Department of Analytical, Environmental & Forensic Sciences, Faculty of Life Sciences & Medicine, King's College London, London, UK.,Elliott Forensic Consulting Ltd., Birmingham, UK
| | - Vincenzo Abbate
- Department of Analytical, Environmental & Forensic Sciences, Faculty of Life Sciences & Medicine, King's College London, London, UK
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Brandt SD, Walters HM, Partilla JS, Blough BE, Kavanagh PV, Baumann MH. The psychoactive aminoalkylbenzofuran derivatives, 5-APB and 6-APB, mimic the effects of 3,4-methylenedioxyamphetamine (MDA) on monoamine transmission in male rats. Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2020; 237:3703-3714. [PMID: 32875347 PMCID: PMC7686291 DOI: 10.1007/s00213-020-05648-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2020] [Accepted: 08/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
RATIONALE The nonmedical use of new psychoactive substances (NPS) is a worldwide public health concern. The so-called "benzofury" compounds, 5-(2-aminopropyl)benzofuran (5-APB) and 6-(2-aminopropyl)benzofuran (6-APB), are NPS with stimulant-like properties in human users. These substances are known to interact with monoamine transporters and 5-HT receptors in transfected cells, but less is known about their effects in animal models. METHODS Here, we used in vitro monoamine transporter assays in rat brain synaptosomes to characterize the effects of 5-APB and 6-APB, together with their N-methyl derivatives 5-MAPB and 6-MAPB, in comparison with 3,4-methylenedioxyamphetamine (MDA) and 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA). In vivo neurochemical and behavioral effects of 5-APB (0.3 and 1.0 mg/kg, i.v.) and 6-APB (0.3 and 1.0 mg/kg, i.v.) were assessed in comparison with MDA (1.0 and 3.0 mg/kg, i.v.) using microdialysis sampling in the nucleus accumbens of conscious male rats. RESULTS All four benzofuran derivatives were substrate-type releasers at dopamine transporters (DAT), norepinephrine transporters (NET), and serotonin transporters (SERT) with nanomolar potencies, similar to the profile of effects produced by MDA and MDMA. However, the benzofurans were at least threefold more potent than MDA and MDMA at evoking transporter-mediated release. Like MDA, both benzofurans induced dose-related elevations in extracellular dopamine and serotonin in the brain, but benzofurans were more potent than MDA. The benzofuran derivatives also induced profound behavioral activation characterized by forward locomotion which lasted for at least 2 h post-injection. CONCLUSIONS Overall, benzofurans are more potent than MDA in vitro and in vivo, producing sustained stimulant-like effects in rats. These data suggest that benzofuran-type compounds may have abuse liability and could pose risks for adverse effects, especially if used in conjunction with abused drugs or medications which enhance monoamine transmission in the brain.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Simon D. Brandt
- School of Pharmacy and Biomolecular Sciences, Liverpool John Moores University, Byrom Street, L3 3AF, Liverpool, UK
| | - Hailey M. Walters
- Designer Drug Research Unit, Intramural Research Program, National Institute on Drug Abuse, National Institutes of Health, Baltimore, 333 Cassell Drive, MD 21224, USA
| | - John S. Partilla
- Designer Drug Research Unit, Intramural Research Program, National Institute on Drug Abuse, National Institutes of Health, Baltimore, 333 Cassell Drive, MD 21224, USA
| | - Bruce E. Blough
- Center for Drug Discovery, RTI International, 3040 Cornwallis Rd, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709, USA
| | - Pierce V. Kavanagh
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, School of Medicine, Trinity Centre for Health Sciences, St. James Hospital, Dublin 8, Ireland
| | - Michael H. Baumann
- Designer Drug Research Unit, Intramural Research Program, National Institute on Drug Abuse, National Institutes of Health, Baltimore, 333 Cassell Drive, MD 21224, USA,Correspondence: Michael H. Baumann, Ph.D., Chief, Designer Drug Research Unit (DDRU), Intramural Research Program (IRP), National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) 333 Cassell Drive, Suite 4400, Baltimore, MD 21224,
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Salerno TMG, Donato P, Frison G, Zamengo L, Mondello L. Gas Chromatography-Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy for Unambiguous Determination of Illicit Drugs: A Proof of Concept. Front Chem 2020; 8:624. [PMID: 32850646 PMCID: PMC7396574 DOI: 10.3389/fchem.2020.00624] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2020] [Accepted: 06/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
The increasing number of synthetic molecules constantly introduced into the illicit drug market poses a great demand in terms of separation and identification power of the analytical tools. Therefore, forensic laboratories are challenged to develop multiple analytical techniques, allowing for the reliable analysis of illicit drugs. This goal is accomplished by means of spectroscopy measurements, usually after a separation step, consisting of liquid (LC) or gas (GC) chromatography. Within the wide range of hyphenated techniques, the coupling of GC to Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) provides a powerful identification tool, also allowing discriminating between isobars and isomers. In this research, the effectiveness of GC-FTIR is demonstrated, in achieving structure elucidation of 1-pentyl-3-(1-naphthoyl)indole, commonly known as JWH-018, a synthetic cannabinoid identified as component of illegal “incense blends.” Moreover, solid deposition FTIR enabled for boosting the sensitivity of the technique, over conventional flow (light pipe) cells, scaling down the limit of identification to the ng scale. Calibration curves for JWH-018 standard were obtained in the 20–1,000 ng range, and the limit of detection and limit of quantification were assessed as equal to 4.3 and 14.3 ng, respectively. Finally, the proposed methodology has been adopted for the identification of active principles in a real “street” sample seized by the law enforcement, consisting of an herbal matrix containing four different synthetic cannabinoids belonging to the JWH class. The correct identification of such compounds, with a high degree of chemical similarity, demonstrated the usefulness of the proposed approach for reliable analysis of complex mixtures of illicit drugs, as viable alternative to widespread mass spectrometry-based approaches.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tania M G Salerno
- BeSep S.r.l., c/o Department of Chemical, Biological, Pharmaceutical and Environmental Sciences, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Paola Donato
- Department of Biomedical, Dental, Morphological and Functional Imaging Sciences, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Giampietro Frison
- Laboratory of Environmental Hygiene and Forensic Toxicology, DMPO Department, AULSS 3, Venice, Italy
| | - Luca Zamengo
- Laboratory of Environmental Hygiene and Forensic Toxicology, DMPO Department, AULSS 3, Venice, Italy
| | - Luigi Mondello
- BeSep S.r.l., c/o Department of Chemical, Biological, Pharmaceutical and Environmental Sciences, University of Messina, Messina, Italy.,Department of Chemical, Biological, Pharmaceutical and Environmental Sciences, University of Messina, Messina, Italy.,Chromaleont S.r.l., c/o Department of Chemical, Biological, Pharmaceutical and Environmental Sciences, University of Messina, Messina, Italy.,Research Unit of Food Science and Nutrition, Department of Science and Technology for Humans and the Environment, Campus Bio-Medico University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Wagmann L, Frankenfeld F, Park YM, Herrmann J, Fischmann S, Westphal F, Müller R, Flockerzi V, Meyer MR. How to Study the Metabolism of New Psychoactive Substances for the Purpose of Toxicological Screenings-A Follow-Up Study Comparing Pooled Human Liver S9, HepaRG Cells, and Zebrafish Larvae. Front Chem 2020; 8:539. [PMID: 32766204 PMCID: PMC7380166 DOI: 10.3389/fchem.2020.00539] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2020] [Accepted: 05/26/2020] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
The new psychoactive substances (NPS) market continues to be very dynamic. A large number of compounds belonging to diverse chemical groups continue to emerge. This makes their detection in biological samples challenging for clinical and forensic toxicologists. Knowledge of the metabolic fate of NPS is crucial for developing comprehensive screening procedures. As human studies are not feasible due to ethical concerns, the current study aimed to compare the NPS' metabolic pattern in incubations with pooled human liver S9 fraction (pHLS9), human liver HepaRG cells, and zebrafish larvae. The latter model was recently shown to be a promising preclinical surrogate for human hepatic metabolism of a synthetic cannabinoid. However, studies concerning other NPS classes are still missing and therefore an amphetamine-based N-methoxybenzyl (NBOMe) compound, a synthetic cathinone, a pyrrolidinophenone analog, a lysergamide, as well as another synthetic cannabinoid were included in the current study. Liquid chromatography coupled to Orbitrap-based high-resolution tandem mass spectrometry was used to analyze metabolic data. Zebrafish larvae were found to produce the highest number of phase I but also phase II metabolites (79 metabolites in total), followed by HepaRG cells (66 metabolites). Incubations with pHLS9 produced the least metabolites (57 metabolites). Furthermore, the involvement of monooxygenases and esterases in the metabolic phase I transformations of 4F-MDMB-BINACA was elucidated using single-enzyme incubations. Several cytochrome P450 (CYP) isozymes were shown to contribute, and CYP3A5 was involved in all CYP-catalyzed reactions, while amide and ester hydrolysis were catalyzed by the human carboxylesterase (hCES) isoforms hCES1b and/or hCES1c. Finally, metabolites were compared to those present in human biosamples if data were available. Overall, the metabolic patterns in HepaRG cells provided the worst overlap with that in human biosamples. Zebrafish larvae experiments agreed best with data found in human plasma and urine analysis. The current study underlines the potential of zebrafish larvae as a tool for elucidating the toxicokinetics of NPS in the future.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lea Wagmann
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Toxicology, Institute of Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology, Center for Molecular Signaling (PZMS), Saarland University, Homburg, Germany
| | - Fabian Frankenfeld
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Toxicology, Institute of Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology, Center for Molecular Signaling (PZMS), Saarland University, Homburg, Germany
| | - Yu Mi Park
- Department of Microbial Natural Products (MINS), Helmholtz Institute for Pharmaceutical Research Saarland (HIPS), Saarland University, Saarbrücken, Germany.,Environmental Safety Group, Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST) Europe, Saarbrücken, Germany
| | - Jennifer Herrmann
- Department of Microbial Natural Products (MINS), Helmholtz Institute for Pharmaceutical Research Saarland (HIPS), Saarland University, Saarbrücken, Germany.,German Center for Infection Research (DZIF), Partner Site Hannover-Braunschweig, Saarbrücken, Germany
| | - Svenja Fischmann
- State Bureau of Criminal Investigation Schleswig-Holstein, Kiel, Germany
| | - Folker Westphal
- State Bureau of Criminal Investigation Schleswig-Holstein, Kiel, Germany
| | - Rolf Müller
- Department of Microbial Natural Products (MINS), Helmholtz Institute for Pharmaceutical Research Saarland (HIPS), Saarland University, Saarbrücken, Germany.,German Center for Infection Research (DZIF), Partner Site Hannover-Braunschweig, Saarbrücken, Germany
| | - Veit Flockerzi
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology, Institute of Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology, Center for Molecular Signaling (PZMS), Saarland University, Homburg, Germany
| | - Markus R Meyer
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Toxicology, Institute of Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology, Center for Molecular Signaling (PZMS), Saarland University, Homburg, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Shapira B, Berkovitz R, Rosca P, Neumark Y. Recent Use of Synthetic Cannabinoids, Synthetic Opioids, and Other Psychoactive Drug Groups among High-risk Drug Users. J Psychoactive Drugs 2020; 52:334-343. [DOI: 10.1080/02791072.2020.1754534] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Barak Shapira
- Hebrew University-Hadassah Braun School of Public Health and Community Medicine, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Ronny Berkovitz
- Division of Enforcement and Inspection, Israel Ministry of Health, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Paola Rosca
- Department for the Treatment of Substance Abuse, Israel Ministry of Health, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Yehuda Neumark
- Hebrew University-Hadassah Braun School of Public Health and Community Medicine, Jerusalem, Israel
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Garneau B, Desharnais B, Beauchamp-Doré A, Lavallée C, Mireault P, Lajeunesse A. Challenges Related to Three Cases of Fatal Intoxication to Multiple Novel Synthetic Opioids. J Anal Toxicol 2020; 44:86-91. [PMID: 30927001 DOI: 10.1093/jat/bkz018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2018] [Revised: 01/25/2019] [Accepted: 02/26/2019] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
In the last two decades, a large increase in opioid overdose death rates has been recorded in North America. This phenomenon, related to the misuse of prescription opioids, has been dubbed an "opioids crisis". Recent years have seen the entrance of novel synthetic opioids (NSO) on the market, compounding the fatal intoxications issue. This brings several challenges for forensic toxicology laboratories: an increased number of cases, a large number of novel structurally similar compounds to include in screening analytical methods, the low concentration of drugs in biological fluids, and the challenging interpretation in the absence of sufficient literature. Three cases of fatal intoxication highlighting those challenges are presented, complete with post-mortem concentrations in cardiac blood, femoral blood and urine. Toxicological screening and quantitative analyses were performed on the biological specimens. In the first and second cases, furanylfentanyl, U-47700 and 4-anilino-N-phenethylpiperidine (4-ANPP) were detected at similar concentrations in cardiac blood. In the third case, a total of seventeen different NSO were detected. All intoxications showed a combination of NSO and other drugs. These three cases appear to be the harbinger of an increased NSO prevalence in the province of Québec, Canada.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Béatrice Garneau
- Laboratoire de sciences judiciaires et de médecine légale, Department of Toxicology, 1701 Parthenais St., Montréal, Québec, Canada, H2K 3S7.,Université du Québec à Trois-Rivières, Department of Chemistry, Biochemistry and Physics, 3351 Des Forges Blvd., Trois-Rivières, Québec, G9A 5H7
| | - Brigitte Desharnais
- Laboratoire de sciences judiciaires et de médecine légale, Department of Toxicology, 1701 Parthenais St., Montréal, Québec, Canada, H2K 3S7.,Concordia University, Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry, 7141 Sherbrooke St. West, Montréal, Québec, Canada, H4B 1R6
| | - Audrey Beauchamp-Doré
- Laboratoire de sciences judiciaires et de médecine légale, Department of Toxicology, 1701 Parthenais St., Montréal, Québec, Canada, H2K 3S7
| | - Catherine Lavallée
- Laboratoire de sciences judiciaires et de médecine légale, Department of Toxicology, 1701 Parthenais St., Montréal, Québec, Canada, H2K 3S7
| | - Pascal Mireault
- Laboratoire de sciences judiciaires et de médecine légale, Department of Toxicology, 1701 Parthenais St., Montréal, Québec, Canada, H2K 3S7
| | - André Lajeunesse
- Université du Québec à Trois-Rivières, Department of Chemistry, Biochemistry and Physics, 3351 Des Forges Blvd., Trois-Rivières, Québec, G9A 5H7.,Université du Québec à Trois-Rivières, Forensic Research Group, 3351 des Forges Blvd., Trois-Rivières, Québec, G9A 5H7
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Münster-Müller S, Scheid N, Zimmermann R, Pütz M. Combination of stable isotope ratio data and chromatographic impurity signatures as a comprehensive concept for the profiling of highly prevalent synthetic cannabinoids and their precursors. Anal Chim Acta 2020; 1108:129-141. [DOI: 10.1016/j.aca.2020.01.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2019] [Revised: 01/10/2020] [Accepted: 01/13/2020] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
|
30
|
Sachdev S, Banister SD, Santiago M, Bladen C, Kassiou M, Connor M. Differential activation of G protein-mediated signaling by synthetic cannabinoid receptor agonists. Pharmacol Res Perspect 2020; 8:e00566. [PMID: 32101383 PMCID: PMC7043210 DOI: 10.1002/prp2.566] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2019] [Revised: 01/23/2020] [Accepted: 01/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Synthetic cannabinoid receptor agonists (SCRAs) are new psychoactive substances associated with acute intoxication and even death. However, the molecular mechanisms through which SCRAs may exert their toxic effects remain unclear-including the potential differential activation of G protein subtypes by cannabinoid receptor type 1 (CB1), a major target of SCRA. We measured CB1-mediated activation of Gαs and Gαi/o proteins by SCRAs by examining stimulation (pertussis toxin, PTX treated) as well as inhibition (non-PTX treated) of forskolin (FSK)-induced cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) accumulation in human embryonic kidney (HEK) cells stably expressing CB1. Real-time measurements of stimulation and inhibition of cAMP levels were made using a BRET biosensor. We found that the maximum concentration of SCRAs tested (10 µmol L-1 ), increased cAMP levels 12%-45% above that produced by FSK alone, while the phytocannabinoid THC did not significantly alter cAMP levels in PTX-treated HEK-CB1 cells. All SCRAs had greater potency to inhibit FSK-induced cAMP levels than to stimulate cAMP levels. The rank order of potencies for SCRA stimulation of cAMP (Gαs ) was PB-22 > 5F-MDMB-PICA > JWH-018 ≈ AB-FUBINACA > XLR-11. By contrast, the potency of SCRAs for inhibition of cAMP (Gαi/o ) was 5F-MDMB-PICA > AB-FUBINACA > PB-22 > JWH-018 > XLR-11. The different rank order of potency and EMax of the SCRAs to stimulate Gαs -like signaling compared to Gαi/o signaling suggests differences in G protein preference between SCRAs. Understanding the apparent differences among these drugs may contribute to unravelling their complex effects in humans.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shivani Sachdev
- Department of Biomedical SciencesMacquarie UniversitySydneyNSWAustralia
| | - Samuel D. Banister
- The Lambert Initiative for Cannabinoid Therapeutics, Brain and Mind CentreThe University of SydneySydneyNSWAustralia
- School of ChemistryThe University of SydneySydneyNSWAustralia
| | - Marina Santiago
- Department of Biomedical SciencesMacquarie UniversitySydneyNSWAustralia
| | - Chris Bladen
- Department of Biomedical SciencesMacquarie UniversitySydneyNSWAustralia
| | - Michael Kassiou
- School of ChemistryThe University of SydneySydneyNSWAustralia
| | - Mark Connor
- Department of Biomedical SciencesMacquarie UniversitySydneyNSWAustralia
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Manier SK, Niedermeier S, Schäper J, Meyer MR. Use of UPLC-HRMS/MS for In Vitro and In Vivo Metabolite Identification of Three Methylphenidate-derived New Psychoactive Substances. J Anal Toxicol 2020; 44:156-162. [PMID: 31355413 DOI: 10.1093/jat/bkz052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2019] [Revised: 04/15/2019] [Accepted: 06/09/2019] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The distribution of so-called new psychoactive substances (NPS) as substitute for common drug of abuse was steadily increasing in the last years, but knowledge about their toxicodynamic and toxicokinetic properties is lacking. However, a comprehensive knowledge of their toxicokinetics, particularly their metabolism, is crucial for developing reliable screening procedures and to verify their intake, e.g., in case of intoxications. The aim of this study was therefore to tentatively identify the metabolites of the methylphenidate-derived NPS isopropylphenidate (isopropyl 2-phenyl-2-(2-piperidyl) acetate, IPH), 4-fluoromethylphenidate (methyl 2-(4-fluorophenyl)-2-(piperidin-2-yl) acetate, 4-FMPH) and 3,4-dichloromethylphenidate (methyl 2-(3,4-dichlorophenyl)-2-(piperidin-2-yl) acetate, 3,4-CTMP) using different in vivo and in vitro techniques and ultra-high performance liquid chromatography-high-resolution mass spectrometry (UHPLC-HRMS/MS). Urine samples of male rats were analyzed, and the transfer to human metabolism was done by using pooled human S9 fraction (pS9), which contains the microsomal fraction of liver homogenisate as well as its cytosol. UHPLC-HRMS/MS analysis of rat urine revealed 17 metabolites for IPH (14 phase I and 3 phase II metabolites), 13 metabolites were found for 4-FMPH (12 phase I metabolites and 1 phase II metabolite) and 7 phase I metabolites and no phase II metabolites were found for 3,4-CTMP. pS9 incubations additionally indicated that all investigated substances were primarily hydrolyzed, resulting in the corresponding carboxy metabolites. Finally, these carboxy metabolites should be used as additional analytical targets besides the parent compounds for comprehensive mass spectrometry-based screening procedures.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sascha K Manier
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Toxicology, Institute of Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology, Center for Molecular Signaling (PZMS), Saarland University, Homburg, Germany
| | - Sophia Niedermeier
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Toxicology, Institute of Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology, Center for Molecular Signaling (PZMS), Saarland University, Homburg, Germany
| | - Jan Schäper
- State Bureau of Criminal Investigation Bavaria, 80636 München, Germany
| | - Markus R Meyer
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Toxicology, Institute of Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology, Center for Molecular Signaling (PZMS), Saarland University, Homburg, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Anabolic-Androgenic Steroid Use in the Eastern Mediterranean Region: a Scoping Review of Extant Empirical Literature. Int J Ment Health Addict 2020. [DOI: 10.1007/s11469-019-00217-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
AbstractThe use of image- and performance-enhancing drugs particularly anabolic-androgenic steroids (AAS) is not a new phenomenon. AAS use is not limited to athletes, with mainstream populations using these drugs for aesthetic purposes. Prevalence has been predominantly in Western countries, with some recent studies indicating a rise in popularity in the Eastern Mediterranean region. A scoping review of extant empirical literature from the Eastern Mediterranean region described and mapped what is known about the extent of AAS in the region. Four themes emerged from the review: (1) profile of AAS users; (2) AAS within gymnasium practice; (3) AAS regimes of use; and (4) knowledge and understanding of the AAS concept and related adverse effects. The review highlights a relatively new phenomenon of AAS use in the Eastern Mediterranean. The review underscores the need to carry out further research, particularly qualitative and quantitative studies with both genders, and cognisant of the complexities of culture and religiosity.
Collapse
|
33
|
Lin H, Zeng X, Wang Q, Li Y, Sun B, Wang Y, Wang H. Identification and imaging of indole-3-carboxamide cannabinoids in hair using matrix-assisted laser-desorption/ionization mass spectrometry. Forensic Toxicol 2019. [DOI: 10.1007/s11419-019-00510-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
|
34
|
Segawa H, Fukuoka T, Itoh T, Imai Y, Iwata YT, Yamamuro T, Kuwayama K, Tsujikawa K, Kanamori T, Inoue H. Rapid detection of synthetic cannabinoids in herbal highs using surface-enhanced Raman scattering produced by gold nanoparticle co-aggregation in a wet system. Analyst 2019; 144:6928-6935. [PMID: 31661540 DOI: 10.1039/c9an01512d] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Synthetic cannabinoids (SCs) are a major category of new psychoactive substances that are frequently distributed after addition to plants. To date, various SCs with small differences in their chemical structures have prevailed in the illegal drug market. Thus, the development of a method for rapid detection with high discrimination capability is critically important for the forensic field. Vibrational spectroscopy is a possible analytical technique for this purpose because it can sensitively reflect differences among chemical structures. In this study, we applied surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) with gold nanoparticle co-aggregation in a wet system to plant samples containing SCs. The experimental protocol used was simple and involved only mixing of the sample with several other solutions. It was possible to detect SERS spectra from various stock solutions of SCs by this method. The method was then applied to street samples containing SCs. Some of the plant samples containing SCs did not produce significant SERS signals even though stock solutions of the same SCs did produce SERS spectra. We investigated the reason for this discrepancy and speculated that the solubility in aqueous solutions was a factor determining whether a significant SERS signal could be detected or not. According to this hypothesis, minimal sample pre-treatment methods were applied. This allowed for the detection of SERS spectra from the examined plant samples. The developed approach is a powerful method for screening analysis of SCs in plant fragments.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hiroki Segawa
- Third Department of Forensic Science, National Research Institute of Police Science, 6-3-1, Kashiwanoha, Kashiwa, Chiba 277-0882, Japan.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
35
|
Shevyrin V, Eltsov O, Shafran Y. Identification and analytical characterization of the synthetic cathinone N-butylhexedrone. Drug Test Anal 2019; 12:159-163. [PMID: 31667946 DOI: 10.1002/dta.2712] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2019] [Revised: 10/02/2019] [Accepted: 10/05/2019] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Vadim Shevyrin
- Ural Federal University named after the first President of Russia B. N. Yeltsin, Institute of Chemical Engineering, 19 Mira Str, 620002, Ekaterinburg, Russian Federation
| | - Oleg Eltsov
- Ural Federal University named after the first President of Russia B. N. Yeltsin, Institute of Chemical Engineering, 19 Mira Str, 620002, Ekaterinburg, Russian Federation
| | - Yuri Shafran
- Ural Federal University named after the first President of Russia B. N. Yeltsin, Institute of Chemical Engineering, 19 Mira Str, 620002, Ekaterinburg, Russian Federation
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
Shirley Lee HZ, Koh HB, Tan S, Goh BJ, Lim R, Lim JLW, Angeline Yap TW. Identification of closely related new psychoactive substances (NPS) using solid deposition gas-chromatography infra-red detection (GC–IRD) spectroscopy. Forensic Sci Int 2019; 299:21-33. [PMID: 30954004 DOI: 10.1016/j.forsciint.2019.03.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2018] [Revised: 03/06/2019] [Accepted: 03/15/2019] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
|
37
|
Quantification of U-47700 and its metabolites in plasma by LC-MS/MS. J Chromatogr B Analyt Technol Biomed Life Sci 2019; 1112:41-47. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jchromb.2019.02.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2018] [Revised: 02/22/2019] [Accepted: 02/25/2019] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
|
38
|
Stereochemistry of phase-1 metabolites of mephedrone determines their effectiveness as releasers at the serotonin transporter. Neuropharmacology 2019; 148:199-209. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2018.12.032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2018] [Revised: 12/17/2018] [Accepted: 12/31/2018] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
|
39
|
Shamai Yamin T, Prihed H, Weissberg A. Challenges in the identification process of phenidate analogues in LC-ESI-MS/MS analysis: Information enhancement by derivatization with isobutyl chloroformate. JOURNAL OF MASS SPECTROMETRY : JMS 2019; 54:266-273. [PMID: 30597685 DOI: 10.1002/jms.4327] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2018] [Revised: 12/19/2018] [Accepted: 12/19/2018] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
A new analytical technique for the structural elucidation of four representative phenidate analogues possessing a secondary amine residue, which leads to a major/single amine-representative fragment/product ion at m/z 84 both in their GC-EI-MS and LC-ESI-MS/MS spectra, making their identification ambiguous, was developed. The method is based on "in vial" chemical derivatization with isobutyl chloroformate in both aqueous and organic solutions, followed by liquid chromatography-electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (LC-ESI-MS/MS). The resulting carbamate derivatives promote rich fragmentation patterns with full coverage of all substructures of the molecule, enabling detailed structural elucidation and unambiguous identification of the original compounds at low ng/mL levels.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tamar Shamai Yamin
- Department of Analytical Chemistry, Israel Institute for Biological Research (IIBR), P.O.B. 19, Ness Ziona, Israel
| | - Hagit Prihed
- Department of Analytical Chemistry, Israel Institute for Biological Research (IIBR), P.O.B. 19, Ness Ziona, Israel
| | - Avi Weissberg
- Department of Analytical Chemistry, Israel Institute for Biological Research (IIBR), P.O.B. 19, Ness Ziona, Israel
| |
Collapse
|
40
|
Abstract
Aminorex (5-phenyl-4,5-dihydro-1,3-oxazol-2-amine) and 4-methylaminorex (4-methyl-5-phenyl-4,5-dihydro-1,3-oxazol-2-amine) are psychostimulants that have long been listed in Schedules IV and I of the UN Convention on Psychotropic Substances of 1971. However, a range of psychoactive analogues exist that are not internationally controlled and therefore often classified as new psychoactive substances (NPS). Aminorex analogues encompass failed pharmaceuticals that reemerged as drugs of abuse, and newly synthesized substances that were solely designed for recreational use by clandestine chemists. NPS, sometimes also referred to as "designer drugs" in alignment with a phenomenon arising in the early 1980s, serve as alternatives to controlled drugs. Aminorex and its derivatives interact with monoaminergic neurotransmission by interfering with the function of monoamine transporters. Hence, these compounds share pharmacological and neurochemical similarities with amphetamines and cocaine. The consumption of aminorex, 4-methylaminorex and 4,4'-dimethylaminorex (4-methyl-5-(4-methylphenyl)-4,5-dihydro-1,3-oxazol-2-amine) has been associated with adverse events including death, bestowing an inglorious fame on aminorex-derived drugs. In this Review, a historical background is presented, as well as an account of the pharmacodynamic and pharmacokinetic properties of aminorex and various analogues. Light is shed on their misuse as drug adulterants of well-established drugs on the market. This Review not only provides a detailed overview of an abused substance-class, but also emphasizes the darkest aspect of the NPS market, i.e., deleterious side effects that arise from the ingestion of certain NPS, as knowledge of the pharmacology, the potency, or the identity of the active ingredients remains obscure to NPS users.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Julian Maier
- Medical University of Vienna, Center for Physiology and Pharmacology, Institute of Pharmacology, Währingerstraße 13A, 1090, Vienna, Austria
| | - Felix P. Mayer
- Medical University of Vienna, Center for Physiology and Pharmacology, Institute of Pharmacology, Währingerstraße 13A, 1090, Vienna, Austria
| | - Simon D. Brandt
- School of Pharmacy and Biomolecular Sciences, Liverpool John Moores University, Byrom Street, Liverpool, L3 3AF, UK
| | - Harald H. Sitte
- Medical University of Vienna, Center for Physiology and Pharmacology, Institute of Pharmacology, Währingerstraße 13A, 1090, Vienna, Austria
| |
Collapse
|
41
|
Tang MHY, Hung LY, Lai CK, Ching CK, Mak TWL. 9-year review of new psychoactive substance use in Hong Kong: A clinical laboratory perspective. HONG KONG J EMERG ME 2018. [DOI: 10.1177/1024907918798553] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: New psychoactive substances are constantly evolving structural analogues of traditional drugs of abuse that have become a threat to public health worldwide and within our locality. An understanding of the local pattern of new psychoactive substance use will help guide frontline clinical management. Objectives: This study was conducted to review the new psychoactive substances detected in cases referred to the authors’ laboratory (a tertiary clinical toxicology centre), as well as the associated clinical features and toxicological findings. Methods: All cases referred to the laboratory for toxicology analysis between January 2009 and December 2017, and which were analytically confirmed to involve new psychoactive substance use, were retrospectively reviewed. Demographic data, clinical features and toxicology findings were studied. Results: A total of 111 cases involving 104 patients and 22 types of new psychoactive substances were identified, with an increasing trend in the number of cases and subclass of new psychoactive substances detected. Up to half of the cases (n = 64) were related to the use of 2-phenyl-2-(ethylamino)-cyclohexanone (2-oxo-PCE, a ketamine analogue); other new psychoactive substances detected included para-methoxymethamphetamine, 4-fluoroamphetamine, phenazepam, 3-trifluoromethylphenylpiperazine, 5-methoxy-diisopropyltryptamine, 2-diphenylmethylpyrrolidine, methoxyphenidine, the N-methoxybenzyl drugs, cathinones, synthetic cannabinoids and opioids. Among the acute poisoning cases attributable to new psychoactive substance use, the severity was fatal (n = 3), severe (n = 17), moderate (n = 67) and minor (n = 17). And 11 patients required intensive care unit admission. All three fatal cases were associated with para-methoxymethamphetamine use. Conclusion: A rising trend of new psychoactive substance use is observed locally, which is associated with considerable morbidity and mortality. Continued vigilance from frontline clinicians and medical professionals is imperative in the combat against new psychoactive substance use.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Magdalene HY Tang
- Hospital Authority Toxicology Reference Laboratory, Princess Margaret Hospital, Kowloon, Hong Kong
| | - LY Hung
- Hospital Authority Toxicology Reference Laboratory, Princess Margaret Hospital, Kowloon, Hong Kong
- Chemical Pathology Laboratory, Princess Margaret Hospital, Kowloon, Hong Kong
| | - CK Lai
- Hospital Authority Toxicology Reference Laboratory, Princess Margaret Hospital, Kowloon, Hong Kong
- Chemical Pathology Laboratory, Princess Margaret Hospital, Kowloon, Hong Kong
| | - CK Ching
- Hospital Authority Toxicology Reference Laboratory, Princess Margaret Hospital, Kowloon, Hong Kong
- Chemical Pathology Laboratory, Princess Margaret Hospital, Kowloon, Hong Kong
| | - Tony Wing Lai Mak
- Hospital Authority Toxicology Reference Laboratory, Princess Margaret Hospital, Kowloon, Hong Kong
- Chemical Pathology Laboratory, Princess Margaret Hospital, Kowloon, Hong Kong
| |
Collapse
|
42
|
Tang MH, Chong Y, Chan CY, Ching C, Lai C, Li Y, Mak TW. Cluster of acute poisonings associated with an emerging ketamine analogue, 2-oxo-PCE. Forensic Sci Int 2018; 290:238-243. [DOI: 10.1016/j.forsciint.2018.07.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2018] [Revised: 06/22/2018] [Accepted: 07/17/2018] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
|
43
|
Rapid tentative identification of synthetic cathinones in seized products taking advantage of the full capabilities of triple quadrupole analyzer. Forensic Toxicol 2018. [DOI: 10.1007/s11419-018-0432-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
|
44
|
Reporting the novel synthetic cathinone 5-PPDI through its analytical characterization by mass spectrometry and nuclear magnetic resonance. Forensic Toxicol 2018. [DOI: 10.1007/s11419-018-0422-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
|
45
|
In vitro Phase I and Phase II metabolism of the new designer benzodiazepine cloniprazepam using liquid chromatography coupled to quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry. J Pharm Biomed Anal 2018; 153:158-167. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jpba.2018.02.032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2017] [Revised: 02/07/2018] [Accepted: 02/16/2018] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
|
46
|
Rychert M, Wilkins C. A critical analysis of the implementation of a legal regulated market for new psychoactive substances (“legal highs”) in New Zealand. THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DRUG POLICY 2018. [DOI: 10.1016/j.drugpo.2018.02.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
|
47
|
Carlsson A, Sandgren V, Svensson S, Konradsson P, Dunne S, Josefsson M, Dahlén J. Prediction of designer drugs: Synthesis and spectroscopic analysis of synthetic cathinone analogs that may appear on the Swedish drug market. Drug Test Anal 2018; 10:1076-1098. [PMID: 29426062 DOI: 10.1002/dta.2366] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2017] [Revised: 01/22/2018] [Accepted: 01/22/2018] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
The use of hyphenated analytical techniques in forensic drug screening enables simultaneous identification of a wide range of different compounds. However, the appearance of drug seizures containing new substances, mainly new psychoactive substances (NPS), is steadily increasing. These new and other already known substances often possess structural similarities and consequently they exhibit spectral data with slight differences. This situation has made the criteria that ensure indubitable identification of compounds increasingly important. In this work, 6 new synthetic cathinones that have not yet appeared in any Swedish drug seizures were synthesized. Their chemical structures were similar to those of already known cathinone analogs of which 42 were also included in the study. Hence, a total of 48 synthetic cathinones making up sets of homologous and regioisomeric compounds were used to challenge the capabilities of various analytical techniques commonly applied in forensic drug screening, ie, gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS), gas chromatography-Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (GC-FTIR), nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), and liquid chromatography quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry (LC-QTOF-MS). Special attention was paid to the capabilities of GC-MS and GC-FTIR to distinguish between the synthetic cathinones and the results showed that neither GC-MS nor GC-FTIR alone can successfully differentiate between all synthetic cathinones. However, the 2 techniques proved to be complementary and their combined use is therefore beneficial. For example, the structural homologs were better differentiated by GC-MS, while GC-FTIR performed better for the regioisomers. Further, new spectroscopic data of the synthesized cathinone analogs is hereby presented for the forensic community. The synthetic work also showed that cathinone reference compounds can be produced in few reaction steps.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Andreas Carlsson
- Swedish National Forensic Centre - NFC, Linköping, Sweden
- Department of Physics, Chemistry and Biology, Linköping University, Sweden
| | - Veronica Sandgren
- Department of Physics, Chemistry and Biology, Linköping University, Sweden
| | - Stefan Svensson
- Department of Physics, Chemistry and Biology, Linköping University, Sweden
| | - Peter Konradsson
- Department of Physics, Chemistry and Biology, Linköping University, Sweden
| | - Simon Dunne
- Swedish National Forensic Centre - NFC, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Martin Josefsson
- Department of Physics, Chemistry and Biology, Linköping University, Sweden
- Department of Forensic Genetics and Forensic Toxicology, National Board of Forensic Medicine, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Johan Dahlén
- Department of Physics, Chemistry and Biology, Linköping University, Sweden
| |
Collapse
|
48
|
Brandt SD, Kavanagh PV, Twamley B, Westphal F, Elliott SP, Wallach J, Stratford A, Klein LM, McCorvy JD, Nichols DE, Halberstadt AL. Return of the lysergamides. Part IV: Analytical and pharmacological characterization of lysergic acid morpholide (LSM-775). Drug Test Anal 2018; 10:310-322. [PMID: 28585392 PMCID: PMC6230476 DOI: 10.1002/dta.2222] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2017] [Revised: 05/31/2017] [Accepted: 06/01/2017] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
Lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) is perhaps one of the best-known psychoactive substances and many structural modifications of this prototypical lysergamide have been investigated. Several lysergamides were recently encountered as 'research chemicals' or new psychoactive substances (NPS). Although lysergic acid morpholide (LSM-775) appeared on the NPS market in 2013, there is disagreement in the literature regarding the potency and psychoactive properties of LSM-775 in humans. The present investigation attempts to address the gap of information that exists regarding the analytical profile and pharmacological effects of LSM-775. A powdered sample of LSM-775 was characterized by X-ray crystallography, nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy (NMR), gas chromatography mass spectrometry (GC-MS), high mass accuracy electrospray MS/MS, high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) diode array detection, HPLC quadrupole MS, and GC solid-state infrared analysis. Screening for receptor affinity and functional efficacy revealed that LSM-775 acts as a nonselective agonist at 5-HT1A and 5-HT2A receptors. Head twitch studies were conducted in C57BL/6J mice to determine whether LSM-775 activates 5-HT2A receptors and produces hallucinogen-like effects in vivo. LSM-775 did not induce the head twitch response unless 5-HT1A receptors were blocked by pretreatment with the antagonist WAY-100,635 (1 mg/kg, subcutaneous). These findings suggest that 5-HT1A activation by LSM-775 masks its ability to induce the head twitch response, which is potentially consistent with reports in the literature indicating that LSM-775 is only capable of producing weak LSD-like effects in humans.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Simon D. Brandt
- School of Pharmacy and Biomolecular Sciences, Liverpool John Moores University, Liverpool, UK
| | - Pierce V. Kavanagh
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, School of Medicine, Trinity Centre for Health Sciences, Dublin 8, Ireland
| | - Brendan Twamley
- School of Chemistry, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin 2, Ireland
| | - Folker Westphal
- Section Narcotics/Toxicology, State Bureau of Criminal Investigation Schleswig-Holstein, Kiel, Germany
| | | | - Jason Wallach
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Philadelphia College of Pharmacy, University of the Sciences, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | | | - Landon M. Klein
- Department of Neurosciences, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
| | - John D. McCorvy
- Department of Pharmacology, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - David E. Nichols
- Division of Chemical Biology and Medicinal Chemistry, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Adam L. Halberstadt
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
| |
Collapse
|
49
|
Banister SD, Olson A, Winchester M, Stuart J, Edington AR, Kevin RC, Longworth M, Herrera M, Connor M, McGregor IS, Gerona RR, Kassiou M. The chemistry and pharmacology of synthetic cannabinoid SDB-006 and its regioisomeric fluorinated and methoxylated analogs. Drug Test Anal 2018; 10:1099-1109. [PMID: 29350472 DOI: 10.1002/dta.2362] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2017] [Revised: 01/09/2018] [Accepted: 01/10/2018] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Synthetic cannabinoids are the largest and most structurally diverse class of new psychoactive substances, with manufacturers often using isomerism to evade detection and circumvent legal restriction. The regioisomeric methoxy- and fluorine-substituted analogs of SDB-006 (N-benzyl-1-pentyl-1H-indole-3-carboxamide) were synthesized and could not be differentiated by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS), but were distinguishable by liquid chromatography-quadrupole time-of-flight-MS (LC-QTOF-MS). In a fluorescence-based plate reader membrane potential assay, SDB-006 acted as a potent agonist at human cannabinoid receptors (CB1 EC50 = 19 nM). All methoxy- and fluorine-substituted analogs showed reduced potency compared to SDB-006, although the 2-fluorinated analog (EC50 = 166 nM) was comparable to known synthetic cannabinoid RCS-4 (EC50 = 146 nM). Using biotelemetry in rats, SDB-006 and RCS-4 evoked comparable reduction in body temperature (~0.7°C at a dose of 10 mg/kg), suggesting lower potency than the recent synthetic cannabinoid AB-CHMINACA (>2°C, 3 mg/kg).
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Samuel D Banister
- Department of Pathology, Stanford University, Stanford, California, USA
| | - Alexander Olson
- Clinical Toxicology and Environmental Biomonitoring Laboratory, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Matthew Winchester
- Clinical Toxicology and Environmental Biomonitoring Laboratory, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Jordyn Stuart
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- School of Psychology, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Amelia R Edington
- School of Psychology, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Richard C Kevin
- School of Psychology, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | | | - Marco Herrera
- Department of Immunology, Stanford University, Stanford, California, USA
| | - Mark Connor
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Iain S McGregor
- School of Psychology, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Roy R Gerona
- Clinical Toxicology and Environmental Biomonitoring Laboratory, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Michael Kassiou
- School of Chemistry, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
50
|
Guillou C, Reniero F, Vicente JL, Holland M, Kolar K, Chassaigne H, Tirendi S, Schepers H. Collaboration of the Joint Research Centre and European Customs Laboratories for the Identification of New Psychoactive Substances. Curr Pharm Biotechnol 2018; 19:91-98. [PMID: 29792142 PMCID: PMC6110040 DOI: 10.2174/1389201019666180523122717] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2018] [Revised: 02/14/2018] [Accepted: 04/20/2018] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The emergence of psychoactive designer drugs has significantly increased over the last few years. Customs officials are responsible for the control of products entering the European Union (EU) market. This control applies to chemicals in general, pharmaceutical products and medicines. Numerous products imported from non-EU countries, often declared as 'bath salts' or 'fertilizers', contain new psychoactive substance (NPS). REVIEW These are not necessarily controlled under international law, but may be subject to monitoring in agreement with EU legislation. This situation imposes substantial challenges, for example, for the maintenance of spectral libraries used for their detection by designated laboratories. The chemical identification of new substances, with the use of powerful instrumentation, and the time needed for detailed analysis and interpretation of the results, demands considerable commitment. The EU Joint Research Centre endeavors to provide scientific support to EU Customs laboratories to facilitate rapid identification and characterisation of seized samples. In addition to analysing known NPS, several new chemical entities have also been identified. Frequently, these belong to NPS classes already notified to the European Monitoring Centre for Drugs and Drug Addiction (EMCDDA) by the European Early- Warning System (EWS). CONCLUSION The aim of this paper is to discuss the implementation of workflow mechanisms that are in place in order to facilitate the monitoring, communication and management of analytical data. The rapid dissemination of this information between control authorities strives to help protect EU citizens against the health risks posed by harmful substances.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Claude Guillou
- Address correspondence to this author at the European Commission, Directorate General Joint Research Centre, Directorate F - Health, Consumers and Reference Materials via E. Fermi, 2749, I-21020 Ispra (VA) - Italy; Tel: +39 0332 785678; E-mail:
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|