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Lima CD, Magalhães de Almeida Melo L, Arantes LC, Conceição NDS, de França Schaffel I, Machado LL, de Queiroz Ferreira R, Pio Dos Santos WT. Simple and selective screening method for the synthetic cathinone MDPT in forensic samples using carbon nanofiber screen-printed electrodes. Talanta 2024; 269:125375. [PMID: 37977086 DOI: 10.1016/j.talanta.2023.125375] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2023] [Revised: 10/27/2023] [Accepted: 10/30/2023] [Indexed: 11/19/2023]
Abstract
3',4'-Methylenedioxy-N-tert-butylcathinone (MDPT), also known as tBuONE or D-Tertylone, is a synthetic cathinone (SC) frequently abused for recreational purposes due to its potent stimulant effects and similarity to illegal substances like methamphetamine and ecstasy. The structural diversity and rapid introduction of new SC analogs to the market poses significant challenges for law enforcement and analytical methods for preliminary screening of illicit drugs. In this work, we present, for the first time, the electrochemical detection of MDPT using screen-printed electrodes modified with carbon nanofibers (SPE-CNF). MDPT exhibited three electrochemical processes (two oxidations and one reduction) on SPE-CNF. The proposed method for MDPT detection was optimized in 0.2 mol L-1 Britton-Robinson buffer solution at pH 10.0 using differential pulse voltammetry (DPV). The SPE-CNF showed a high stability for electrochemical responses of all redox processes of MDPT using the same or different electrodes, with relative standard deviations less than 4.7% and 1.5% (N = 3) for peak currents and peak potentials, respectively. Moreover, the proposed method provided a wide linear range for MDPT determination (0.90-112 μmol L-1) with low LOD (0.26 μmol L-1). Interference studies for two common adulterants, caffeine and paracetamol, and ten other illicit drugs, including amphetamine-like compounds and different SCs, showed that the proposed sensor is highly selective for the preliminarily identification of MDPT in seized forensic samples. Therefore, SPE-CNF with DPV can be successfully applied as a fast and simple screening method for MDPT identification in forensic analysis, addressing the significant challenges posed by the structural diversity of SCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Camila Diana Lima
- Departamento de Química, Universidade Federal dos Vales do Jequitinhonha e Mucuri, Campus JK, 39100000, Diamantina, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Larissa Magalhães de Almeida Melo
- Departamento de Química, Universidade Federal dos Vales do Jequitinhonha e Mucuri, Campus JK, 39100000, Diamantina, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Luciano Chaves Arantes
- Laboratório de Química e Física Forense, Instituto de Criminalística, Polícia Civil do Distrito Federal, 70610-907, Brasília, Distrito Federal, Brazil
| | - Nathália Dos Santos Conceição
- Departamento de Química, Universidade Federal do Espírito Santo, Campus Goiabeiras, 29075910, Vitória, Espírito Santo, Brazil
| | - Izabela de França Schaffel
- Departamento de Química, Universidade Federal do Espírito Santo, Campus Goiabeiras, 29075910, Vitória, Espírito Santo, Brazil
| | - Lara Lima Machado
- Departamento de Farmácia, Universidade Federal dos Vales do Jequitinhonha e Mucuri, Campus JK, 39100000, Diamantina, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Rafael de Queiroz Ferreira
- Departamento de Química, Universidade Federal do Espírito Santo, Campus Goiabeiras, 29075910, Vitória, Espírito Santo, Brazil
| | - Wallans Torres Pio Dos Santos
- Departamento de Farmácia, Universidade Federal dos Vales do Jequitinhonha e Mucuri, Campus JK, 39100000, Diamantina, Minas Gerais, Brazil.
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da Cunha KF, Oliveira KD, Costa JL. Green analytical toxicology method for determination of synthetic cathinones in oral fluid samples by microextraction by packed sorbent and liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry. Forensic Toxicol 2024; 42:18-30. [PMID: 37505359 DOI: 10.1007/s11419-023-00671-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2023] [Accepted: 07/14/2023] [Indexed: 07/29/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE We developed and validated a method for quantitative analysis of ten synthetic cathinones in oral fluid (OF) samples, using microextraction by packed sorbent (MEPS) for sample preparation followed by liquid chromatography‒tandem mass spectrometry (LC‒MS/MS). METHOD OF samples were collected with a Quantisal™ device and 200 µL was extracted using a C18 MEPS cartridge installed on a semi-automated pipette and then analyzed using LC‒M/SMS. RESULTS Linearity was achieved between 0.1 and 25 ng/mL, with a limit of detection (LOD) of 0.05 ng/mL and a limit of quantification (LOQ) of 0.1 ng/mL. Imprecision (% relative standard deviation) and bias (%) were better than 11.6% and 7.5%, respectively. The method had good specificity and selectivity against 9 different blank OF samples (from different donors) and 68 pharmaceutical and drugs of abuse with concentrations varying between 400 and 10,000 ng/mL. No evidence of carryover was observed. The analytes were stable after three freeze/thaw cycles and when kept in the autosampler (10 °C) for up to 24 h. The method was successfully applied to quantify 41 authentic positive samples. Methylone (mean 0.6 ng/mL, median 0.2 ng/mL), N-ethylpentylone (mean 16.7 ng/mL, median 0.35 ng/mL), eutylone (mean 39.1 ng/mL, median 3.6 ng/mL), mephedrone (mean 0.5 ng/mL, median 0.5 ng/mL), and 4-chloroethcathinone (8.1 ng/mL) were quantified in these samples. CONCLUSION MEPS was an efficient technique for Green Analytical Toxicology purposes, which required only 650 µL organic solvent and 200 µL sodium hydroxide, and the BIN cartridge had a lifespan of 100 sample extractions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kelly Francisco da Cunha
- Campinas Poison Control Center, Faculty of Medical Sciences, University of Campinas, Campinas, São Paulo, 13083‑859, Brazil
- Faculty of Medical Sciences, University of Campinas, Campinas, São Paulo, 13083‑859, Brazil
| | - Karina Diniz Oliveira
- Faculty of Medical Sciences, University of Campinas, Campinas, São Paulo, 13083‑859, Brazil
| | - Jose Luiz Costa
- Campinas Poison Control Center, Faculty of Medical Sciences, University of Campinas, Campinas, São Paulo, 13083‑859, Brazil.
- Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Campinas, Campinas, São Paulo, 13083‑859, Brazil.
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Di Giorgi A, Sprega G, Poyatos L, Papaseit E, Pérez-Mañá C, Di Trana A, Varì MR, Busardò FP, Pichini S, Zaami S, Lo Faro AF, Farré M. Sweat Testing for the Detection of Methylone after Controlled Administrations in Humans. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24087395. [PMID: 37108557 PMCID: PMC10138602 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24087395] [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: 03/20/2023] [Revised: 04/02/2023] [Accepted: 04/14/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The aim of this study was to determine the excretion of methylone and its metabolites in sweat following the ingestion of increasing controlled doses of 50, 100, 150 and 200 mg of methylone to twelve healthy volunteers involved in a clinical trial. Methylone and its metabolites 4-hydroxy-3-methoxy-N-methylcathinone (HMMC) and 3,4-methylenedioxycathinone (MDC) were analyzed in sweat patches by liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry. Methylone and MDC were detected in sweat at 2 h and reached their highest accumulation (Cmax) at 24 h after the administration of 50, 100, 150 and 200 mg doses. In contrast, HMMC was not detectable at any time interval after each dose. Sweat proved to be a suitable matrix for methylone and its metabolites' determination in clinical and toxicological studies, providing a concentration that reveals recent drug consumption.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandro Di Giorgi
- Department of Excellence-Biomedical Sciences and Public Health, Università Politecnica delle Marche, 60121 Ancona, Italy
| | - Giorgia Sprega
- Department of Excellence-Biomedical Sciences and Public Health, Università Politecnica delle Marche, 60121 Ancona, Italy
| | - Lourdes Poyatos
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, Hospital Universitari Germans Trias i Pujol and Institut de Recerca Germans Trias i Pujol (HUGTiP-IGTP), 08916 Badalona, Spain
- Department of Pharmacology, Therapeutics and Toxicology and Department of Psychiatry and Forensic Medicine, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona (UAB), 08193 Cerdanyola del Vallés, Spain
| | - Esther Papaseit
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, Hospital Universitari Germans Trias i Pujol and Institut de Recerca Germans Trias i Pujol (HUGTiP-IGTP), 08916 Badalona, Spain
- Department of Pharmacology, Therapeutics and Toxicology and Department of Psychiatry and Forensic Medicine, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona (UAB), 08193 Cerdanyola del Vallés, Spain
| | - Clara Pérez-Mañá
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, Hospital Universitari Germans Trias i Pujol and Institut de Recerca Germans Trias i Pujol (HUGTiP-IGTP), 08916 Badalona, Spain
- Department of Pharmacology, Therapeutics and Toxicology and Department of Psychiatry and Forensic Medicine, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona (UAB), 08193 Cerdanyola del Vallés, Spain
| | - Annagiulia Di Trana
- National Centre on Addiction and Doping, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Maria Rosaria Varì
- National Centre on Addiction and Doping, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Francesco Paolo Busardò
- Department of Excellence-Biomedical Sciences and Public Health, Università Politecnica delle Marche, 60121 Ancona, Italy
| | - Simona Pichini
- National Centre on Addiction and Doping, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Simona Zaami
- Department of Anatomical, Histological, Forensic, and Orthopedic Sciences, Università La Sapienza, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Alfredo Fabrizio Lo Faro
- Department of Excellence-Biomedical Sciences and Public Health, Università Politecnica delle Marche, 60121 Ancona, Italy
| | - Magí Farré
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, Hospital Universitari Germans Trias i Pujol and Institut de Recerca Germans Trias i Pujol (HUGTiP-IGTP), 08916 Badalona, Spain
- Department of Pharmacology, Therapeutics and Toxicology and Department of Psychiatry and Forensic Medicine, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona (UAB), 08193 Cerdanyola del Vallés, Spain
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Sprega G, Di Giorgi A, Poyatos L, Papaseit E, Pérez-Mañá C, Tini A, Pichini S, Busardò FP, Lo Faro AF, Farré M. Usefulness of Oral Fluid for Measurement of Methylone and Its Metabolites: Correlation with Plasma Drug Concentrations and the Effect of Oral Fluid pH. Metabolites 2023; 13:metabo13040468. [PMID: 37110127 PMCID: PMC10143603 DOI: 10.3390/metabo13040468] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2023] [Revised: 03/07/2023] [Accepted: 03/22/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The aim of this study was to investigate methylone and its metabolites concentration in oral fluid following controlled increasing doses, focusing on the effect of oral fluid pH. Samples were obtained from a clinical trial where twelve healthy volunteers participated after ingestion of 50, 100, 150 and 200 mg of methylone. Concentration of methylone and its metabolites 4-hydroxy-3-methoxy-N-methylcathinone (HMMC) and 3,4-methylenedioxycathinone in oral fluid were measured using liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). Pharmacokinetic parameters were estimated, and the oral fluid-to-plasma ratio (OF/P) at each time interval was calculated and correlated with the oral fluid pH using data from our previous study in plasma. Methylone was detected at all time intervals after each dose; MDC and HMMC were not detectable after the lowest dose. Oral fluid concentrations of methylone ranged between 88.3-503.8, 85.5-5002.3, 182.8-13,201.8 and 214.6-22,684.6 ng/mL following 50, 100, 150 and 200 mg doses, respectively, peaked between 1.5 and 2.0 h, and were followed by a progressive decrease. Oral fluid pH was demonstrated to be affected by methylone administration. Oral fluid is a valid alternative to plasma for methylone determination for clinical and toxicological studies, allowing for a simple, easy and non-invasive sample collection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giorgia Sprega
- Department of Excellence-Biomedical Sciences and Public Health, Università Politecnica delle Marche, 60126 Ancona, Italy
| | - Alessandro Di Giorgi
- Department of Excellence-Biomedical Sciences and Public Health, Università Politecnica delle Marche, 60126 Ancona, Italy
| | - Lourdes Poyatos
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, Hospital Universitari Germans Trias i Pujol and Institut de Recerca Germans Trias i Pujol (HUGTiP-IGTP), 08916 Badalona, Spain
- Department of Pharmacology, Therapeutics and Toxicology and Department of Psychiatry and Forensic Medicine, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona (UAB), 08193 Cerdanyola del Vallés, Spain
| | - Esther Papaseit
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, Hospital Universitari Germans Trias i Pujol and Institut de Recerca Germans Trias i Pujol (HUGTiP-IGTP), 08916 Badalona, Spain
- Department of Pharmacology, Therapeutics and Toxicology and Department of Psychiatry and Forensic Medicine, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona (UAB), 08193 Cerdanyola del Vallés, Spain
| | - Clara Pérez-Mañá
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, Hospital Universitari Germans Trias i Pujol and Institut de Recerca Germans Trias i Pujol (HUGTiP-IGTP), 08916 Badalona, Spain
- Department of Pharmacology, Therapeutics and Toxicology and Department of Psychiatry and Forensic Medicine, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona (UAB), 08193 Cerdanyola del Vallés, Spain
| | - Anastasio Tini
- Department of Excellence-Biomedical Sciences and Public Health, Università Politecnica delle Marche, 60126 Ancona, Italy
| | - Simona Pichini
- National Centre on Addiction and Doping, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Francesco Paolo Busardò
- Department of Excellence-Biomedical Sciences and Public Health, Università Politecnica delle Marche, 60126 Ancona, Italy
| | - Alfredo Fabrizio Lo Faro
- Department of Excellence-Biomedical Sciences and Public Health, Università Politecnica delle Marche, 60126 Ancona, Italy
| | - Magí Farré
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, Hospital Universitari Germans Trias i Pujol and Institut de Recerca Germans Trias i Pujol (HUGTiP-IGTP), 08916 Badalona, Spain
- Department of Pharmacology, Therapeutics and Toxicology and Department of Psychiatry and Forensic Medicine, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona (UAB), 08193 Cerdanyola del Vallés, Spain
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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.
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Simple Analytical Strategy for Screening Three Synthetic Cathinones (α-PVT, α-PVP, and MDPV) in Oral Fluids. ANALYTICA 2022. [DOI: 10.3390/analytica3010002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Synthetic cathinones are analogue compounds of the plant based stimulant cathinone. Its use, abuse, and related consumption complications have steadily increased in the last years. For this reason, there is a need for innovative analytical approaches that enable its rapid screening in biological matrices (e.g., oral fluids). The present work proposes a new analytical methodology by combining bar adsorptive microextraction followed by microliquid desorption and gas chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry (BAµE-µLD/GC-MS) for screening three synthetic cathinones (α-PVP, α-PVT, and MDPV) in oral fluids. The optimization of the BAµE-µLD/GC-MS methodology was successfully applied for the analysis of the target compounds in oral fluids. The results show average recoveries between 43.1 and 52.3% for the three synthetic cathinones. Good selectivity was also noticed. The developed methodology presents itself as an alternative tool to screen these compounds in oral fluids. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first work that combines a microextraction sorption-based technique followed by GC-MS analysis for the screening of synthetic cathinones in oral fluids.
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Pascual-Caro S, Borrull F, Calull M, Aguilar C. A Fast Analytical Method for Determining Synthetic Cathinones in Oral Fluid by Liquid Chromatography-Tandem Mass Spectrometry. J Anal Toxicol 2021; 45:693-700. [PMID: 33031561 DOI: 10.1093/jat/bkaa144] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2020] [Revised: 08/10/2020] [Accepted: 10/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
In this paper, we present a method for simultaneously determining 11 synthetic cathinones in oral fluid (OF) by liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry. Synthetic cathinones, a wide variety of which are available on the market, are constantly evolving. It is therefore important to provide efficient methods for determining cathinones in different matrices. A common matrix for detecting recent drug intake is OF, which can easily be collected using one of numerous commercial devices. Most methods aimed at determining drugs in biological samples such as OF require labor-intensive and time-consuming sample-preparation steps. However, the pretreatment of complex samples is often a challenge in the development of a method. For this reason, in this paper, we present a simple, easy-to-handle alternative that uses a Salivette® device and pretreats the sample in the same device. Matrix-matched calibration curves were used to cover the concentration range at which these substances are usually present in the OF from drug consumers. The method detection limits ranged from 0.003 to 0.03 ng/g, and the method quantification limits were set at 0.075 ng/g. This is a simple, rapid and sensitive method with good potential for determining recent drug consumption in OF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sergi Pascual-Caro
- Department of Analytical Chemistry and Organic Chemistry, Universitat Rovira i Virgili, Campus Sescelades, Marcel·lí Domingo 1, Tarragona, 43007, Spain
| | - Francesc Borrull
- Department of Analytical Chemistry and Organic Chemistry, Universitat Rovira i Virgili, Campus Sescelades, Marcel·lí Domingo 1, Tarragona, 43007, Spain
| | - Marta Calull
- Department of Analytical Chemistry and Organic Chemistry, Universitat Rovira i Virgili, Campus Sescelades, Marcel·lí Domingo 1, Tarragona, 43007, Spain
| | - Carme Aguilar
- Department of Analytical Chemistry and Organic Chemistry, Universitat Rovira i Virgili, Campus Sescelades, Marcel·lí Domingo 1, Tarragona, 43007, Spain
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Yang CA, Liu HC, Liu RH, Lin DL, Wu SP. Simultaneous Quantitation of Seven Phenethylamine-Type Drugs in Forensic Blood and Urine Samples by UHPLC-MS/MS. J Anal Toxicol 2021; 46:246-256. [PMID: 33575738 DOI: 10.1093/jat/bkab014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2020] [Revised: 01/14/2021] [Accepted: 02/11/2021] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Abuse of new psychoactive substances (NPSs) has become a health and social issue of global concern. p-Methoxyamphetamine (PMA)/p-methoxymethamphetamine (PMMA) with fluoro- or chloro-derivatives of amphetamine and methamphetamine were among the most common drugs found in specimens from fatal cases in Taiwan during the January 2011 to December 2018 period. A liquid-liquid extraction sample preparation protocol with highly sensitive ultra-high performance liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (UHPLC-MS/MS) approach was developed for the simultaneous analysis of seven phenethylamine-type drugs - PMA, PMMA, p-methoxyethylamphetamine (PMEA), 4-fluoroamphetamine (4-FA), 4-fluoromethamphetamine (4-FMA), 4-chloroamphetamine (4-CA), and 4-chloromethamphetamine (4-CMA) - in postmortem blood and urine specimens. Separation by liquid chromatography was performed by Agilent Zorbax SB-Aq column. Tandem mass spectrometry was operated in Agilent Jet Stream Technology electrospray ionization in positive-ion multiple reaction monitoring (MRM) mode. An analytical methodology was evaluated using drug-free blood and urine after fortification with 100-2000 ng/mL of the seven target analytes. Average extraction recoveries were >80%; slightly higher ion suppression was observed for PMA and 4-CA; intra-/inter-day precision (%CV) and accuracy were in the ranges of 0.52-12.3% and 85-110%, respectively. Limit of detection (LOD) and lower limit of quantitation (LLOQ) for these seven analytes were both in the 0.5-5 ng/mL range. Interference and carryover were not significant. This relatively simple methodology was found effective and reliable for routine identification and quantitation of these seven analytes in postmortem and antemortem blood and urine specimens received in 2018. Analytical data obtained from these actual cases indicated: (i) compared to findings reported during the 2007-2011 period, the use of substituted phenethylamine-type drugs decreased in 2018; (ii) ketamine and 7-aminonimetazepam (the main metabolite of nimetazepam) were the most common co-ingested substances in specimens containing PMA/PMMA, 4-FA/4-FMA, or 4-CA/4-CMA; and (iii) in drug fatalities, the concentration of PMA was significantly higher than the concentration of PMMA in both urine and blood, while the reverse was true in urine specimens from antemortem cases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chu-An Yang
- Department of Applied Chemistry, National Chiao Tung University, Hsinchu 30010, Taiwan.,Department of Forensic Toxicology, Institute of Forensic Medicine, Ministry of Justice, New Taipei City 23548, Taiwan
| | - Hsiu-Chuan Liu
- Department of Forensic Toxicology, Institute of Forensic Medicine, Ministry of Justice, New Taipei City 23548, Taiwan
| | - Ray H Liu
- Department of Criminal Justice, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL 35294, USA
| | - Dong-Liang Lin
- Department of Forensic Toxicology, Institute of Forensic Medicine, Ministry of Justice, New Taipei City 23548, Taiwan
| | - Shu-Pao Wu
- Department of Applied Chemistry, National Chiao Tung University, Hsinchu 30010, Taiwan
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Couto RAS, Coelho C, Mounssef B, Morais SFDA, Lima CD, dos Santos WTP, Carvalho F, Rodrigues CMP, Braga AAC, Gonçalves LM, Quinaz MB. 3,4-Methylenedioxypyrovalerone (MDPV) Sensing Based on Electropolymerized Molecularly Imprinted Polymers on Silver Nanoparticles and Carboxylated Multi-Walled Carbon Nanotubes. NANOMATERIALS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2021; 11:353. [PMID: 33535439 PMCID: PMC7912732 DOI: 10.3390/nano11020353] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2020] [Revised: 01/23/2021] [Accepted: 01/25/2021] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
3,4-methylenedioxypyrovalerone (MDPV) is a harmful and controlled synthetic cathinone used as a psychostimulant drug and as sport-enhancing substance. A sensor was developed for the direct analysis of MDPV by transducing its oxidation signal by means of an electropolymerized molecularly imprinted polymer (e-MIP) built in-situ on the screen-printed carbon electrode's (SPCE) surface previously covered with multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) and silver nanoparticles (AgNPs). Benzene-1,2-diamine was used as the functional monomer while the analyte was used as the template monomer. Each step of the sensor's development was studied by cyclic voltammetry (CV) and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) in a solution containing ferricyanide, however no redox probe was required for the actual MDPV measurements. The interaction between the poly(o-phenylenediamine) imprinted polymer and MDPV was studied by density-functional theory (DFT) methods. The SPCE-MWCNT-AgNP-MIP sensor responded adequately to the variation of MDPV concentration. It was shown that AgNPs enhanced the electrochemical signal by around a 3-fold factor. Making use of square-wave voltammetry (SWV) the developed sensor provided a limit of detection (LOD) of 1.8 μmol L-1. The analytical performance of the proposed sensor paves the way to the development of a portable device for MDPV on-site sensing to be applied in forensic and doping analysis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rosa A. S. Couto
- REQUIMTE, LAQV, Laboratory of Applied Chemistry, Department of Chemical Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Porto, 4050-213 Porto, Portugal; (R.A.S.C.); (C.C.)
| | - Constantino Coelho
- REQUIMTE, LAQV, Laboratory of Applied Chemistry, Department of Chemical Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Porto, 4050-213 Porto, Portugal; (R.A.S.C.); (C.C.)
| | - Bassim Mounssef
- Departamento de Química Fundamental, Instituto de Química, Universidade de São Paulo (USP), São Paulo, SP 05508-000, Brazil; (B.M.J.); (S.F.d.A.M.); (A.A.C.B.)
| | - Sara F. de A. Morais
- Departamento de Química Fundamental, Instituto de Química, Universidade de São Paulo (USP), São Paulo, SP 05508-000, Brazil; (B.M.J.); (S.F.d.A.M.); (A.A.C.B.)
| | - Camila D. Lima
- Departamento de Química, Universidade Federal dos Vales do Jequitinhonha e Mucuri, Diamantina, MG 39100-000, Brazil;
| | - Wallans T. P. dos Santos
- Departamento de Farmácia, Universidade Federal dos Vales do Jequitinhonha e Mucuri, Diamantina, MG 39100-000, Brazil;
| | - Félix Carvalho
- REQUIMTE, UCIBIO, Laboratory of Toxicology, Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Porto, 4050-213 Porto, Portugal;
| | - Cecília M. P. Rodrigues
- Research Institute for Medicines (iMed.ULisboa), Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-003 Lisbon, Portugal;
| | - Ataualpa A. C. Braga
- Departamento de Química Fundamental, Instituto de Química, Universidade de São Paulo (USP), São Paulo, SP 05508-000, Brazil; (B.M.J.); (S.F.d.A.M.); (A.A.C.B.)
| | - Luís Moreira Gonçalves
- Departamento de Química Fundamental, Instituto de Química, Universidade de São Paulo (USP), São Paulo, SP 05508-000, Brazil; (B.M.J.); (S.F.d.A.M.); (A.A.C.B.)
| | - M. Beatriz Quinaz
- REQUIMTE, LAQV, Laboratory of Applied Chemistry, Department of Chemical Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Porto, 4050-213 Porto, Portugal; (R.A.S.C.); (C.C.)
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10
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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.
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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
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11
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Mercurio I, Pellegrino A, Panata L, Filippucci F, Melai P, Gili A, Capano D, Troiano G, Rettagliata G, Lancia M, Bacci M. Toxicological findings in fatal intoxications from synthetic cathinones: a narrative review. AUST J FORENSIC SCI 2020. [DOI: 10.1080/00450618.2020.1841291] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Isabella Mercurio
- Section of Legal Medicine, Forensic Science and Sports Medicine, University of Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| | | | - Laura Panata
- Section of Legal Medicine, Forensic Science and Sports Medicine, University of Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| | | | | | - Alessio Gili
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Hygiene and Public Health Section, University of Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| | | | | | - George Rettagliata
- Former Clinical Assistant Professor of Medicine at New York Medical College, New York, NY, USA
| | - Massimo Lancia
- Section of Legal Medicine, Forensic Science and Sports Medicine, University of Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| | - Mauro Bacci
- Section of Legal Medicine, Forensic Science and Sports Medicine, University of Perugia, Perugia, Italy
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12
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Determination of Synthetic Cathinones in Urine and Oral Fluid by Liquid Chromatography High-Resolution Mass Spectrometry and Low-Resolution Mass Spectrometry: A Method Comparison. SEPARATIONS 2020. [DOI: 10.3390/separations7040053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Synthetic cathinones have become very popular recreational drugs. Therefore, determining them in biological samples is now a matter of concern. In recent years, different methods that have been developed can determine these drugs at low-concentration levels. In general, liquid chromatography mass spectrometry detection plays an important role in these methods and the trend is to use low-resolution and high-resolution mass spectrometry. In this article, for the first time, we compare these two analyzers using an Orbitrap and a triple quadrupole mass spectrometer in order to determine a group of synthetic cathinones in urine and oral fluid samples. For this comparison, we evaluated and compared different parameters: Method detection and quantification limits, linearity, apparent recoveries, matrix effect, repeatability (intra-day), reproducibility (inter-day), and accuracy. Similar results were obtained for the two analyzers for the apparent recoveries and matrix effect. However, triple quadrupole showed higher sensitivity compared to Orbitrap for both urine and oral fluid samples. The quantification limits in urine and the detection limits in saliva were two times lower for triple quadrupole. Finally, when blind samples were analyzed to study the accuracy, similar results were obtained for both analyzers.
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13
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Electrochemical detection of the synthetic cathinone 3,4-methylenedioxypyrovalerone using carbon screen-printed electrodes: A fast, simple and sensitive screening method for forensic samples. Electrochim Acta 2020. [DOI: 10.1016/j.electacta.2020.136728] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
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14
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da Cunha KF, Oliveira KD, Huestis MA, Costa JL. Screening of 104 New Psychoactive Substances (NPS) and Other Drugs of Abuse in Oral Fluid by LC–MS-MS. J Anal Toxicol 2020; 44:697-707. [DOI: 10.1093/jat/bkaa089] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2020] [Revised: 06/22/2020] [Accepted: 07/10/2020] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Abstract
New psychoactive substances (NPS) are a major public health problem, primarily due to the increased number of acute poisoning cases. Detection of these substances is a challenge. The aim of this research was to develop and validate a sensitive screening method for 104 drugs of abuse, including synthetic cannabinoids, synthetic cathinones, fentanyl analogues, phenethylamines and other abused psychoactive compounds (i.e., THC, MDMA, LSD and their metabolites) in oral fluid by liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (LC–MS-MS). The Quantisal™ oral fluid device was used to collect oral fluid samples. The oral fluid–elution buffer mixture (500-μL sample) was extracted with t-butyl methyl ether, and chromatographic separation was performed on a Raptor™ biphenyl column (100 × 2.1 mm ID, 2.7 μm), with a total run time of 13.5 min. Limits of detection were established at three concentrations (0.05, 0.1 or 1 ng/mL) for most analytes, except for acetyl norfentanyl and mescaline (5 ng/mL). Matrix effects were generally <20% and overall extraction recoveries >60%. The highest matrix effect was observed within the synthetic cannabinoid group (PB22, −55.5%). Lower recoveries were observed for 2C-T (47.2%) and JWH-175 (58.7%). Recoveries from the Quantisal™ device were also evaluated for all analytes (56.7–127%), with lower recoveries noted for 25I-NBOMe, valerylfentanyl and mCPP (56.7, 63.0 and 69.9%, respectively). Drug stability in oral fluid was evaluated at 15, 60 and 90 days and at 25, 4 and −20°C. As expected, greater stability was observed when samples were stored at −20°C, but even when frozen, some NPS (e.g., synthetic cannabinoids) showed more than 20% degradation. The method was successfully applied to the analysis of seven authentic oral fluid samples positive for 17 different analytes. The method achieved good sensitivity and simultaneous detection of a wide range of NPS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kelly Francisco da Cunha
- Faculty of Medical Sciences, University of Campinas (UNICAMP), Campinas, SP 13083-859, Brazil
- Campinas Poison Control Center, University of Campinas (UNICAMP), Campinas, SP 13083-859, Brazil
| | - Karina Diniz Oliveira
- Faculty of Medical Sciences, University of Campinas (UNICAMP), Campinas, SP 13083-859, Brazil
- Campinas Poison Control Center, University of Campinas (UNICAMP), Campinas, SP 13083-859, Brazil
| | - Marilyn A Huestis
- Institute of Emerging Health Professions, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA 19107, USA
| | - Jose Luiz Costa
- Campinas Poison Control Center, University of Campinas (UNICAMP), Campinas, SP 13083-859, Brazil
- Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Campinas (UNICAMP), Campinas, SP 13083-859, Brazil
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15
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Paredes-Ramos M, Sabín-López A, Peña-García J, Pérez-Sánchez H, López-Vilariño JM, Sastre de Vicente ME. Computational aided acetaminophen - phthalic acid molecularly imprinted polymer design for analytical determination of known and new developed recreational drugs. J Mol Graph Model 2020; 100:107627. [PMID: 32674027 DOI: 10.1016/j.jmgm.2020.107627] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2020] [Revised: 04/21/2020] [Accepted: 04/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
In recent times, abuse drug consumption rates have been increasing. In addition, authorities have detected a trend in the development of new substances expressly created to avoid legislation. These novel psychoactive substances (NPS) are non-registered formulations, closely chemically related to outlawed ones to maintain the same psychotropic effects while circumventing legal restrictions. This issue arises enormous social, sanitary, and road safety problems since there is no way to detect nor quantify these non-registered substances. The aim of this work is the development of a high selective material able to pre-concentrate and detect NPS. On that account, molecularly imprinted polymers (MIPs) designed with an imprinted cavity that matches the cathinones structural shape were proposed to detect both conventional and new cathinone derived recreational drugs. The increasing number of illicit drug modifications that is being reported requires developing a receptor valid for not only known molecules but also for incoming ones; thus, a virtual procedure must be carried out to take a step forward towards future modifications. Accordingly, a computational MIP design is proposed as the most appropriated method to effectively design this receptor. By means of molecular dynamics and molecular docking, several combinations are studied regarding their pre-polymerization complex stability but also their rebinding capacity against the proposed analytes. Hence, a phthalic acid - acetaminophen MIP is selected as the most well-suited receptor, valid for current and forthcoming cathinone recreational drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Paredes-Ramos
- Laboratory of Chemistry, Technological Research Center (CIT), Universidade da Coruña (UDC), Campus de Esteiro s/n, 15403, Ferrol - A Coruña, Spain; METMED Research Group, Physical Chemistry Department, Universidade da Coruña (UDC), Campus da Zapateira s/n, 15071, A Coruña, Spain.
| | - A Sabín-López
- Laboratory of Chemistry, Technological Research Center (CIT), Universidade da Coruña (UDC), Campus de Esteiro s/n, 15403, Ferrol - A Coruña, Spain; METMED Research Group, Physical Chemistry Department, Universidade da Coruña (UDC), Campus da Zapateira s/n, 15071, A Coruña, Spain
| | - J Peña-García
- Structural Bioinformatics and High Performance Computing Research Group (BIO-HPC), Computer Engineering Department, Universidad Católica San Antonio de Murcia (UCAM), Campus de Los Jerónimos s/n, 30107, Murcia, Spain
| | - H Pérez-Sánchez
- Structural Bioinformatics and High Performance Computing Research Group (BIO-HPC), Computer Engineering Department, Universidad Católica San Antonio de Murcia (UCAM), Campus de Los Jerónimos s/n, 30107, Murcia, Spain
| | - J M López-Vilariño
- Laboratory of Chemistry, Technological Research Center (CIT), Universidade da Coruña (UDC), Campus de Esteiro s/n, 15403, Ferrol - A Coruña, Spain; Hijos de Rivera S.A.U., C/ José María Rivera Corral n°6, 15008, A Coruña, Spain
| | - M E Sastre de Vicente
- METMED Research Group, Physical Chemistry Department, Universidade da Coruña (UDC), Campus da Zapateira s/n, 15071, A Coruña, Spain
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16
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Altun B, Çok İ. Psychoactive Bath Salts and Neurotoxicity Risk. Turk J Pharm Sci 2020; 17:235-241. [PMID: 32454785 DOI: 10.4274/tjps.galenos.2018.40820] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2018] [Accepted: 12/06/2018] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
Synthetic cathinones are new designer drugs that possess hallucinogenic and psychostimulant properties, and are designed to mimic the effects of illegal substances such as cocaine, amphetamines, and 3.4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (ecstasy) and to produce rewarding effects, circumventing existing laws and penalties. Synthetic cathinones, also referred to as 'bath salts', have become popular particularly among young people since the mid-2000s. Similar to other psychomotor stimulants, synthetic cathinones have the potential to increase monoamine concentration in the synaptic cleft by targeting the plasma membrane transporters of dopamine, norepinephrine, and serotonin. Because of their structural similarities to amphetamines, it has been suggested that synthetic cathinones may have a neurotoxicity profile similar to that of their amphetamine congeners. Therefore, it has been hypothesized that synthetic cathinones may induce neurotoxicity on monoamine nerve endings in the striatum, hippocampus, and cortex. To date, with regard to synthetic cathinone neurotoxicity, parameters such as monoamine depletion, biosynthetic enzyme inhibition, cytotoxicity, generation of reactive oxygen species, pro-oxidation status, and the ability to induce neuroinflammation were investigated in both in vitro and in vivo experimental studies. Compared with amphetamines, synthetic cathinones appear to have more moderate effects than their amphetamine congeners in terms of neurotoxic effects. However, many synthetic cathinone users take these substances simultaneously with other substances such as benzodiazepines, amphetamines, ecstasy, tetrahydrocannabinol, and ethanol and this abuse can modify their neurotoxic effects. Hence, it is important to understand the underlying mechanism of early neurotoxic effects in case of polysubstance use. In this review, we aimed to present up-to-date information on the abuse potential of synthetic cathinones, their legal status, mechanism of action, and particularly their neurotoxic effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Beril Altun
- Gazi University, Faculty of Pharmacy, Department of Pharmaceutical Toxicology, Ankara, Turkey
| | - İsmet Çok
- Gazi University, Faculty of Pharmacy, Department of Pharmaceutical Toxicology, Ankara, Turkey
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17
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Cláudia M, Pedro A, Tiago R, Francisco CR, Eugenia G. Determination of New Psychoactive Substances in Whole Blood Using Microwave Fast Derivatization and Gas Chromatography/Mass Spectrometry. J Anal Toxicol 2020; 44:92-102. [PMID: 31436798 DOI: 10.1093/jat/bkz053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2018] [Revised: 04/15/2019] [Accepted: 06/04/2019] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
The production and consumption of new psychoactive substances (NPSs) has been raising a major concern worldwide. Due to easy access and available information, many NPSs continue to be synthesized with an alarming increase of those available to purchase, despite all the control efforts created. A new analytical method was developed and validated to determine a group of phenethylamines and synthetic cathinones: cathinone, flephedrone, buphedrone, 4-MTA, α-PVP, methylone, 2C-P, ethylone, pentylone, MDPV and bromo-dragonFLY in whole blood. A mixed-mode solid phase extraction was applied to 250 μL of sample, and the extracts were derivatized with fast microwave technique before being analyzed by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). The validation procedure followed the Scientific Working Group for Forensic Toxicology (SWGTOX) guidelines with parameters that included selectivity, linearity, limits of detection and quantification, intra- and inter-day precision and accuracy, recoveries and stability. The method presented linearity between 5 and 500 ng/mL for cathinone, buphedrone, 4-MTA, methylone, 2C-P and bromo-dragonFLY, 10-500 ng/mL for flephedrone, ethylone, pentylone and MDPV, and 40-500 ng/mL for α-PVP, with determination coefficients above 0.99 for all analytes. Recoveries ranged between 70.3% and 116.6%, and regarding intra- and inter-day precision, the relative mean errors were typically lower than 8.6%. The method was successfully applied to over 100 authentic samples from the Laboratory of Chemistry and Forensic Toxicology, Centre Branch, of the National Institute of Legal Medicine and Forensic Sciences, Portugal.
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Affiliation(s)
- Margalho Cláudia
- Instituto Nacional de Medicina Legal e Ciências Forenses - Delegação do Centro, Serviço de Química e Toxicologia Forenses, Largo da Sé Nova, 3000-213, Coimbra Portugal
| | - Almeida Pedro
- Instituto Nacional de Medicina Legal e Ciências Forenses - Delegação do Centro, Serviço de Química e Toxicologia Forenses, Largo da Sé Nova, 3000-213, Coimbra Portugal.,Centro de Investigação em Ciências da Saúde, Faculdade de Ciências da Saúde da Universidade da Beira Interior (CICS-UBI), Avenida Infante D. Henrique, 6201-506, Covilhã, Portugal
| | - Rosado Tiago
- Centro de Investigação em Ciências da Saúde, Faculdade de Ciências da Saúde da Universidade da Beira Interior (CICS-UBI), Avenida Infante D. Henrique, 6201-506, Covilhã, Portugal.,Laboratório de Fármaco-Toxicologia-UBIMedical, Universidade da Beira Interior, EM506, 6200-284, Covilhã, Portugal
| | - Corte Real Francisco
- Instituto Nacional de Medicina Legal e Ciências Forenses - Delegação do Centro, Serviço de Química e Toxicologia Forenses, Largo da Sé Nova, 3000-213, Coimbra Portugal
| | - Gallardo Eugenia
- Centro de Investigação em Ciências da Saúde, Faculdade de Ciências da Saúde da Universidade da Beira Interior (CICS-UBI), Avenida Infante D. Henrique, 6201-506, Covilhã, Portugal.,Laboratório de Fármaco-Toxicologia-UBIMedical, Universidade da Beira Interior, EM506, 6200-284, Covilhã, Portugal
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18
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Desrosiers NA, Huestis MA. Oral Fluid Drug Testing: Analytical Approaches, Issues and Interpretation of Results. J Anal Toxicol 2019; 43:415-443. [DOI: 10.1093/jat/bkz048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2019] [Revised: 05/12/2019] [Accepted: 05/23/2019] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
AbstractWith advances in analytical technology and new research informing result interpretation, oral fluid (OF) testing has gained acceptance over the past decades as an alternative biological matrix for detecting drugs in forensic and clinical settings. OF testing offers simple, rapid, non-invasive, observed specimen collection. This article offers a review of the scientific literature covering analytical methods and interpretation published over the past two decades for amphetamines, cannabis, cocaine, opioids, and benzodiazepines. Several analytical methods have been published for individual drug classes and, increasingly, for multiple drug classes. The method of OF collection can have a significant impact on the resultant drug concentration. Drug concentrations for amphetamines, cannabis, cocaine, opioids, and benzodiazepines are reviewed in the context of the dosing condition and the collection method. Time of last detection is evaluated against several agencies' cutoffs, including the proposed Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, European Workplace Drug Testing Society and Driving Under the Influence of Drugs, Alcohol and Medicines cutoffs. A significant correlation was frequently observed between matrices (i.e., between OF and plasma or blood concentrations); however, high intra-subject and inter-subject variability precludes prediction of blood concentrations from OF concentrations. This article will assist individuals in understanding the relative merits and limitations of various methods of OF collection, analysis and interpretation.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Marilyn A Huestis
- Lambert Center for the Study of Medicinal Cannabis and Hemp, Institute of Emerging Health Professions, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
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19
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López-Rabuñal Á, Lendoiro E, Concheiro M, López-Rivadulla M, Cruz A, de-Castro-Ríos A. A LC-MS/MS method for the determination of common synthetic cathinones in meconium. J Chromatogr B Analyt Technol Biomed Life Sci 2019; 1124:349-355. [PMID: 31279971 DOI: 10.1016/j.jchromb.2019.06.030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2019] [Revised: 06/21/2019] [Accepted: 06/24/2019] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
New psychoactive substances have been introduced into the market in the last years due to their unregulated status. Synthetic cathinones are one of their main representatives, and they have shown to produce neonatal complications. It is important to have objective tools to identify in utero exposure to drugs that have shown to produce neonatal complications. An analytical method was developed and fully validated for the determination of common synthetic cathinones, including methylone, methedrone, mephedrone, 3,4-methylenedioxypyrovalerone (MDPV), (±)-4-fluoromethamphetamine and 4-fluoromethcathinone in meconium. Meconium (0.25 ± 0.02 g) was homogenized with methanol by sonication for 30 min. After centrifugation, the sample was extracted with Oasis MCX columns. The analysis was performed by LC-MS/MS using an Atlantis T3 column (3 μm, 2.1 × 50 mm) and a gradient with acetonitrile and 0.1% formic acid in water. Method validation included the following parameters: selectivity (no endogenous or exogenous interferences), limits of detection (n = 3, 0.5-1 ng/g) and quantification (n = 3, 1-2 ng/g), linearity (n = 5, LOQ-200 ng/g), imprecision (n = 15, 0% to 10%), accuracy (n = 15, 87.3% to 97.8%), matrix effect (n = 10, -76% to -28.1%), extraction efficiency (n = 6, 63.7% to 91.3%), total process efficiency (n = 6, 16% to 60.2%) and stability for 72 h in the autosampler (n = 3, %loss = -6.7% to 5.1%). The method was applied to 28 meconium specimens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ángela López-Rabuñal
- Servizo de Toxicoloxía, Instituto de Ciencias Forenses, Facultade de Medicina, Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela, Spain.
| | - Elena Lendoiro
- Servizo de Toxicoloxía, Instituto de Ciencias Forenses, Facultade de Medicina, Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela, Spain.
| | - Marta Concheiro
- John Jay College of Criminal Justice, City University of New York, New York, USA.
| | - Manuel López-Rivadulla
- Servizo de Toxicoloxía, Instituto de Ciencias Forenses, Facultade de Medicina, Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela, Spain.
| | - Angelines Cruz
- Servizo de Toxicoloxía, Instituto de Ciencias Forenses, Facultade de Medicina, Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela, Spain.
| | - Ana de-Castro-Ríos
- Servizo de Toxicoloxía, Instituto de Ciencias Forenses, Facultade de Medicina, Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela, Spain.
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20
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Costa JL, Cunha KF, Lanaro R, Cunha RL, Walther D, Baumann MH. Analytical quantification, intoxication case series, and pharmacological mechanism of action for N-ethylnorpentylone (N-ethylpentylone or ephylone). Drug Test Anal 2019; 11:461-471. [PMID: 30207090 PMCID: PMC7316160 DOI: 10.1002/dta.2502] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2018] [Revised: 09/05/2018] [Accepted: 09/06/2018] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
Synthetic cathinones continue to proliferate in clandestine drug markets worldwide. N-ethylnorpentylone (also known as N-ethylpentylone or ephylone) is a popular emergent cathinone, yet little information is available about its toxicology and pharmacology. Here we characterize the analytical quantification, clinical presentation, and pharmacological mechanism of action for N-ethylnorpentylone. Liquid chromatography coupled to tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) was used to quantify N-ethylnorpentylone in blood obtained from human cases. Clinical features exhibited by the intoxicated individuals are described. The activity of N-ethylnorpentylone at plasma membrane transporters for dopamine (DAT), norepinephrine (NET) and 5-HT (SERT) was assessed using in vitro assays measuring uptake inhibition and evoked release of [3 H] neurotransmitters in rat brain synaptosomes. Our LC-MS/MS method assayed N-ethylnorpentylone concentrations with limits of detection and quantification of 1 and 5 ng/mL, respectively. Quantitation was linear from 5 to 500 ng/mL, and the method displayed specificity and reproducibility. Circulating concentrations of N-ethylnorpentylone ranged from 7 to 170 ng/mL in clinical cases, and the associated symptoms included palpitations, tachycardia, agitation, hallucinations, coma and death. N-Ethylnorpentylone was a potent inhibitor at DAT (IC50 = 37 nM), NET (IC50 = 105 nM) and SERT (IC50 = 383 nM) but displayed no transporter releasing activity. We present a validated method for quantifying N-ethylnorpentylone in human case work. The drug is a psychomotor stimulant capable of inducing serious cardiovascular and neurological side-effects which can be fatal. In vitro findings indicate that N-ethylnorpentylone exerts its effects by potent blockade of DAT and NET, thereby elevating extracellular levels of dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain and periphery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jose Luiz Costa
- Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Campinas, Campinas, São Paulo 13083-859, Brazil
- Campinas Poison Control Center, Faculty of Medical Sciences, University of Campinas, Campinas, São Paulo 13083-859, Brazil
| | - Kelly Francisco Cunha
- Campinas Poison Control Center, Faculty of Medical Sciences, University of Campinas, Campinas, São Paulo 13083-859, Brazil
| | - Rafael Lanaro
- Campinas Poison Control Center, Faculty of Medical Sciences, University of Campinas, Campinas, São Paulo 13083-859, Brazil
| | - Ricardo Leal Cunha
- Institute of Chemistry, Federal University of Bahia, Salvador, Bahia 40170-115, Brazil
- Institute of Analysis and Forensic Research, Aracaju, Sergipe 49100-000, Brazil
| | - Donna Walther
- Designer Drug Research Unit of the Intramural Research Program, National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), National Institutes of Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Michael H. Baumann
- Designer Drug Research Unit of the Intramural Research Program, National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), National Institutes of Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
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21
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Biavardi E, Massera C. Crystal structure of a host-guest complex between mephedrone hydro-chloride and a tetra-phospho-nate cavitand. Acta Crystallogr E Crystallogr Commun 2019; 75:277-283. [PMID: 30800467 PMCID: PMC6362660 DOI: 10.1107/s2056989019001464] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2018] [Accepted: 01/25/2019] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
A new supra-molecular complex (I) between the tetra-phospho-nate cavitand Tiiii[C3H7,CH3,C6H5] [systematic name: 2,8,14,20-tetra-propyl-5,11,17,23-tetra-methyl-6,10:12,16:18,22:24,4-tetra-kis-(phenyl-phospho-nato-O,O')resorcin[4]arene] and mephedrone hydro-choride {C11H16NO+·Cl-; systematic name: meth-yl[1-(4-methyl-phen-yl)-1-oxopropan-2-yl]aza-nium chloride} has been obtained and characterized both in solution and in the solid state. The complex of general formula (C11H16NO)@Tiiii[C3H7,CH3,C6H5]Cl·CH3OH or C11H16NO+·Cl-·C68H68O12P4·CH3OH, crystallizes in the monoclinic space group P21/c with one lattice methanol mol-ecule per cavitand, disordered over two positions with occupancy factors of 0.665 (6) and 0.335 (6). The mephedrone guest inter-acts with the P=O groups at the upper rim of the cavitand through two charge-assisted N-H⋯O hydrogen bonds, while the methyl group directly bound to the amino moiety is stabilized inside the π basic cavity via cation⋯π inter-actions. The chloride counter-anion is located between the alkyl legs of the cavitand, forming C-H⋯Cl inter-actions with the aromatic and methyl-enic H atoms of the lower rim. The chloride anion is also responsible for the formation of a supra-molecular chain along the b-axis direction through C-H⋯Cl inter-actions involving the phenyl substituent of one phospho-nate group. C-H⋯O and C-H⋯π inter-actions between the guest and adjacent cavitands contribute to the formation of the crystal structure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisa Biavardi
- Dipartimento di Scienze Chimiche, della Vita e della Sostenibilità Ambientale, Università di Parma, Parco Area delle Scienze 17/A, 43124 Parma, Italy
| | - Chiara Massera
- Dipartimento di Scienze Chimiche, della Vita e della Sostenibilità Ambientale, Università di Parma, Parco Area delle Scienze 17/A, 43124 Parma, Italy
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Reinstadler V, Lierheimer S, Boettcher M, Oberacher H. A validated workflow for drug detection in oral fluid by non-targeted liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry. Anal Bioanal Chem 2019; 411:867-876. [PMID: 30519959 PMCID: PMC6338695 DOI: 10.1007/s00216-018-1504-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2018] [Revised: 11/05/2018] [Accepted: 11/19/2018] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Oral fluid is recognized as an important specimen for drug testing. Common applications are monitoring in substance abuse treatment programs, therapeutic drug monitoring, pain management, workplace drug testing, clinical toxicology, and driving under the influence of drugs (DRUID). In this study, we demonstrate that non-targeted LC-MS/MS with subsequent compound identification by tandem mass spectral library search is a valuable tool for comprehensive detection and confirmation of drugs in oral fluid samples. The workflow developed involves solid-phase extraction and chromatographic separation on reversed phase materials. Mass spectrometric detection is accomplished on a quadrupole-quadrupole-time-of-flight instrument operated with data-dependent acquisition control. The workflow was optimized for 500 μl of neat oral fluid collected with the Greiner Bio-One saliva collection system. The fitness of the developed method was tested and proven by analyzing blank and spiked samples as well as 59 authentic patient samples. We could demonstrate that compounds with logP values in the range 0.5-5.5 are efficiently detected at low nanograms per milliliter concentrations. The true positive and true negative rates of automated library search were equal or close to 100%. The beauty of the non-targeted LC-MS/MS approach is the ability to detect compounds hardly included in routinely applied targeted assays, and this was demonstrated by detecting the synthetic opioid U-47700 in two patient samples. Graphical abstract ᅟ.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vera Reinstadler
- Institute of Legal Medicine and Core Facility Metabolomics, Medical University of Innsbruck, Muellerstr. 44, 6020, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Stefan Lierheimer
- MVZ Labor Dessau GmbH, Bauhüttenstr. 6, 06847, Dessau-Roßlau, Germany
| | - Michael Boettcher
- MVZ Labor Dessau GmbH, Bauhüttenstr. 6, 06847, Dessau-Roßlau, Germany
| | - Herbert Oberacher
- Institute of Legal Medicine and Core Facility Metabolomics, Medical University of Innsbruck, Muellerstr. 44, 6020, Innsbruck, Austria.
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Simultaneous determination of 20 drugs of abuse in oral fluid using ultrasound-assisted dispersive liquid–liquid microextraction. Anal Bioanal Chem 2018; 411:193-203. [DOI: 10.1007/s00216-018-1428-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2018] [Revised: 09/09/2018] [Accepted: 10/10/2018] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
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Couto RAS, Gonçalves LM, Carvalho F, Rodrigues JA, Rodrigues CMP, Quinaz MB. The Analytical Challenge in the Determination of Cathinones, Key-Players in the Worldwide Phenomenon of Novel Psychoactive Substances. Crit Rev Anal Chem 2018; 48:372-390. [DOI: 10.1080/10408347.2018.1439724] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Rosa A. S. Couto
- LAQV/REQUIMTE, Department of Chemical Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Luís Moreira Gonçalves
- LAQV/REQUIMTE, Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Faculty of Sciences, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
- Departamento de Química Fundamental, Instituto de Química, Universidade de São Paulo (USP), São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Félix Carvalho
- UCIBIO/REQUIMTE, Laboratory of Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - José A. Rodrigues
- LAQV/REQUIMTE, Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Faculty of Sciences, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Cecília M. P. Rodrigues
- Research Institute for Medicines (iMed.ULisboa), Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - M. Beatriz Quinaz
- LAQV/REQUIMTE, Department of Chemical Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
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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.
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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:
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Du P, Zhou Z, Bai Y, Xu Z, Gao T, Fu X, Li X. Estimating heroin abuse in major Chinese cities through wastewater-based epidemiology. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2017; 605-606:158-165. [PMID: 28666170 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2017.05.262] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2017] [Revised: 05/26/2017] [Accepted: 05/29/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
Heroin consumption in major cities across China was estimated for the first time via wastewater-based epidemiology. Influent and effluent wastewater samples were collected from 49 wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) in 24 major cities that cover all the geographic regions of the country. Concentrations of morphine, 6-acetylmorphine, and codeine were measured. Near complete removal of morphine by wastewater treatment processes was observed, whereas removal rates of codeine were slightly lower. Morphine loads were much higher than codeine loads at most WWTPs in China, a trend opposite to that in many European countries. In addition, morphine and codeine loads were strongly correlated at most WWTPs, indicating morphine and codeine in wastewater were predominantly from the same source, street heroin. At WWTPs in Guangzhou and Shenzhen, codeine loads were considerably higher than morphine loads, consistent with previous reports of codeine abuse (e.g., as cough syrup) among middle and high school students in Guangdong province. Heroin consumption was derived based on morphine loads and taking into account therapeutic use of morphine and codeine, as well as contribution of codeine and acetylcodeine in street heroin. Highest heroin consumption was observed in northwestern and southwestern China. The average heroin consumption of the sampled cities was 64.6±78.7mg/1000inh/d. The nation-wide average heroin consumption was much lower than that of methamphetamine, consistent with seizure data and numbers of registered heroin and methamphetamine users in China.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peng Du
- Laboratory of Earth Surface Processes, College of Urban and Environmental Sciences, Peking University, 100871 Beijing, China
| | - Zilei Zhou
- Laboratory of Earth Surface Processes, College of Urban and Environmental Sciences, Peking University, 100871 Beijing, China
| | - Ya Bai
- Laboratory of Earth Surface Processes, College of Urban and Environmental Sciences, Peking University, 100871 Beijing, China
| | - Zeqiong Xu
- Laboratory of Earth Surface Processes, College of Urban and Environmental Sciences, Peking University, 100871 Beijing, China
| | - Tingting Gao
- Laboratory of Earth Surface Processes, College of Urban and Environmental Sciences, Peking University, 100871 Beijing, China
| | - Xiaofang Fu
- Laboratory of Earth Surface Processes, College of Urban and Environmental Sciences, Peking University, 100871 Beijing, China
| | - Xiqing Li
- Laboratory of Earth Surface Processes, College of Urban and Environmental Sciences, Peking University, 100871 Beijing, China.
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Rocchi R, Simeoni MC, Montesano C, Vannutelli G, Curini R, Sergi M, Compagnone D. Analysis of new psychoactive substances in oral fluids by means of microextraction by packed sorbent followed by ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry. Drug Test Anal 2017; 10:865-873. [DOI: 10.1002/dta.2330] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2017] [Revised: 10/16/2017] [Accepted: 10/16/2017] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Rachele Rocchi
- Faculty of Bioscience and Technology for Food, Agriculture and Environment; University of Teramo; Teramo Italy
| | - Maria Chiara Simeoni
- Faculty of Bioscience and Technology for Food, Agriculture and Environment; University of Teramo; Teramo Italy
| | | | | | - Roberta Curini
- Department of Chemistry; Sapienza University of Rome; Rome Italy
| | - Manuel Sergi
- Faculty of Bioscience and Technology for Food, Agriculture and Environment; University of Teramo; Teramo Italy
| | - Dario Compagnone
- Faculty of Bioscience and Technology for Food, Agriculture and Environment; University of Teramo; Teramo Italy
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A fast bioanalytical method based on microextraction by packed sorbent and UPLC–MS/MS for determining new psychoactive substances in oral fluid. Talanta 2017; 174:454-461. [DOI: 10.1016/j.talanta.2017.06.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2017] [Revised: 06/08/2017] [Accepted: 06/09/2017] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
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Lehmann S, Kieliba T, Beike J, Thevis M, Mercer-Chalmers-Bender K. Determination of 74 new psychoactive substances in serum using automated in-line solid-phase extraction-liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry. J Chromatogr B Analyt Technol Biomed Life Sci 2017; 1064:124-138. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jchromb.2017.09.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2017] [Revised: 08/18/2017] [Accepted: 09/01/2017] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
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30
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Stability of synthetic cathinones in oral fluid samples. Forensic Sci Int 2017; 274:13-21. [DOI: 10.1016/j.forsciint.2016.11.034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2016] [Revised: 11/16/2016] [Accepted: 11/22/2016] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
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31
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Fernández P, González M, Regenjo M, Ares A, Fernández A, Lorenzo R, Carro A. Analysis of drugs of abuse in human plasma using microextraction by packed sorbents and ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography. J Chromatogr A 2017; 1485:8-19. [DOI: 10.1016/j.chroma.2017.01.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2016] [Revised: 12/23/2016] [Accepted: 01/07/2017] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
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32
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Challenges in Laboratory Detection of Unusual Substance Abuse: Issues with Magic Mushroom, Peyote Cactus, Khat, and Solvent Abuse. Adv Clin Chem 2017; 78:163-186. [PMID: 28057187 DOI: 10.1016/bs.acc.2016.07.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Drug abuse is a worldwide problem. Although commonly abused drugs can be identified during routine urine drug testing, less commonly abused drugs may escape detection. These less commonly abused drugs not only include some designer drugs such as synthetic cannabinoid but also include abuse of psychedelic magic mushroom (active ingredients: psilocybin and psilocin), peyote cactus (active ingredient: mescaline), and khat plants (active ingredient: cathinone). Moreover, solvent and glue abuse is gaining popularity among teenagers and young adults which may even cause fatality. Amphetamine/methamphetamine immunoassay has a low cross-reactivity with psilocin. Cathinone, if present in the urine, can be detected by amphetamine/methamphetamine immunoassay due to cross-reactivity of cathinone with assay antibody. Currently there is one commercially available immunoassay which is capable of detecting synthetic cathinone known as bath salts as well as mescaline. However, gas chromatography combined with mass spectrometry as well as liquid chromatography combined with tandem mass spectrometry (LC/MS/MS)-based method is available for confirmation of the active ingredients present in magic mushroom, peyote cactus, and khat plant. Such chromatography-based methods also offer more sensitivity and specificity compared to an immunoassay.
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Papaseit E, Moltó J, Muga R, Torrens M, de la Torre R, Farré M. Clinical Pharmacology of the Synthetic Cathinone Mephedrone. Curr Top Behav Neurosci 2017; 32:313-331. [PMID: 28012094 DOI: 10.1007/7854_2016_61] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
4-Methyl-N-methylcathinone (mephedrone) is a popular new psychoactive substance (NPS) that is structurally related to the parent compound cathinone, the β-keto analogue of amphetamine. Mephedrone appeared on the street drug market as a substitute for 3,4-methylenedioxy-N-methylamphetamine (MDMA, ecstasy) and was subsequently banned due to the potential health risks associated with its use. Nevertheless, mephedrone continues to be widely consumed among specific populations, with unique patterns of misuse. To date, most information about the biological effects of mephedrone comes from user experiences, epidemiological data, clinical cases, toxicological findings, and animal studies, whilst there are very few data regarding its human pharmacodynamics and pharmacokinetics. This chapter reviews the available published data on patterns of mephedrone use, its acute and chronic effects, and its pharmacokinetic properties. More human research is needed to elucidate the safety, toxicity, and addiction potential of mephedrone and related NPS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Esther Papaseit
- Hospital Universitari Germans Trias i Pujol (IGTP), Badalona, Spain
- Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona (UAB), Cerdanyola del Vallés, Spain
| | - José Moltó
- Hospital Universitari Germans Trias i Pujol (IGTP), Badalona, Spain
- Fundació Lluita contra la Sida, Badalona, Spain
| | - Robert Muga
- Hospital Universitari Germans Trias i Pujol (IGTP), Badalona, Spain
- Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona (UAB), Cerdanyola del Vallés, Spain
| | - Marta Torrens
- Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona (UAB), Cerdanyola del Vallés, Spain
- IMIM-Hospital del Mar Medical Research Institute, Barcelona, Spain
- Institut de Neuropsiquiatria i Adiccions, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Rafael de la Torre
- IMIM-Hospital del Mar Medical Research Institute, Barcelona, Spain
- Universitat Pompeu Fabra (UPF), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Magí Farré
- Hospital Universitari Germans Trias i Pujol (IGTP), Badalona, Spain.
- Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona (UAB), Cerdanyola del Vallés, Spain.
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Identification and quantification of synthetic cathinones in blood and urine using liquid chromatography-quadrupole/time of flight (LC-Q/TOF) mass spectrometry. J Chromatogr B Analyt Technol Biomed Life Sci 2016; 1035:91-103. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jchromb.2016.09.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2016] [Revised: 09/15/2016] [Accepted: 09/19/2016] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
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Mercolini L, Protti M. Biosampling strategies for emerging drugs of abuse: towards the future of toxicological and forensic analysis. J Pharm Biomed Anal 2016; 130:202-219. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jpba.2016.06.046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2016] [Revised: 06/22/2016] [Accepted: 06/24/2016] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
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Ellefsen KN, Concheiro M, Huestis MA. Synthetic cathinone pharmacokinetics, analytical methods, and toxicological findings from human performance and postmortem cases. Drug Metab Rev 2016; 48:237-65. [PMID: 27249313 DOI: 10.1080/03602532.2016.1188937] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
Synthetic cathinones are commonly abused novel psychoactive substances (NPS). We present a comprehensive systematic review addressing in vitro and in vivo synthetic cathinone pharmacokinetics, analytical methods for detection and quantification in biological matrices, and toxicological findings from human performance and postmortem toxicology cases. Few preclinical administration studies examined synthetic cathinone pharmacokinetic profiles (absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion), and only one investigated metabolite pharmacokinetics. Synthetic cathinone metabolic profiling studies, primarily with human liver microsomes, elucidated metabolite structures and identified suitable biomarkers to extend detection windows beyond those provided by parent compounds. Generally, cathinone derivatives underwent ketone reduction, carbonylation of the pyrrolidine ring, and oxidative reactions, with phase II metabolites also detected. Reliable analytical methods are necessary for cathinone identification in biological matrices to document intake and link adverse events to specific compounds and concentrations. NPS analytical methods are constrained in their ability to detect new emerging synthetic cathinones due to limited commercially available reference standards and continuous development of new analogs. Immunoassay screening methods are especially affected, but also gas-chromatography and liquid-chromatography mass spectrometry confirmation methods. Non-targeted high-resolution-mass spectrometry screening methods are advantageous, as they allow for retrospective data analysis and easier addition of new synthetic cathinones to existing methods. Lack of controlled administration studies in humans complicate interpretation of synthetic cathinones in biological matrices, as dosing information is typically unknown. Furthermore, antemortem and postmortem concentrations often overlap and the presence of other psychoactive substances are typically found in combination with cathinones derivatives, further confounding result interpretation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kayla N Ellefsen
- a Chemistry and Drug Metabolism, IRP , National Institute on Drug Abuse, National Institutes of Health , Baltimore , MD , USA ;,b Program in Toxicology , University of Maryland Baltimore , Baltimore , MD , USA
| | - Marta Concheiro
- c Department of Sciences, John Jay College of Criminal Justice , City University of New York , New York , NY , USA
| | - Marilyn A Huestis
- a Chemistry and Drug Metabolism, IRP , National Institute on Drug Abuse, National Institutes of Health , Baltimore , MD , USA
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Mercolini L, Protti M, Catapano MC, Rudge J, Sberna AE. LC–MS/MS and volumetric absorptive microsampling for quantitative bioanalysis of cathinone analogues in dried urine, plasma and oral fluid samples. J Pharm Biomed Anal 2016; 123:186-94. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jpba.2016.02.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 76] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2015] [Revised: 02/11/2016] [Accepted: 02/12/2016] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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Abstract
Oral fluid has become an important matrix for drugs of abuse analysis. These days the applicability is challenged by the fact that an increasing number of new psychoactive drugs are coming on the market. Synthetic cannabinoids and synthetic cathinones have been the main drug classes, but the diversity is increasing and other drugs like piperazines, phenethylamines, tryptamines, designer opioids and designer benzodiazepines are becoming more prevalent. Many of the substances are very potent, and low doses ingested will lead to low concentrations in biological media, including oral fluid. This review will highlight the phenomenon of new psychoactive substances and review methods for oral fluid drug testing analysis using on-site tests, immunoassays and chromatographic methods.
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Lobo Vicente J, Chassaigne H, Holland MV, Reniero F, Kolář K, Tirendi S, Vandecasteele I, Vinckier I, Guillou C. Systematic analytical characterization of new psychoactive substances: A case study. Forensic Sci Int 2016; 265:107-15. [PMID: 26874735 DOI: 10.1016/j.forsciint.2016.01.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2015] [Revised: 01/18/2016] [Accepted: 01/21/2016] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
New psychoactive substances (NPS) are synthesized compounds that are not usually covered by European and/or international laws. With a slight alteration in the chemical structure of existing illegal substances registered in the European Union (EU), these NPS circumvent existing controls and are thus referred to as "legal highs". They are becoming increasingly available and can easily be purchased through both the internet and other means (smart shops). Thus, it is essential that the identification of NPS keeps up with this rapidly evolving market. In this case study, the Belgian Customs authorities apprehended a parcel, originating from China, containing two samples, declared as being "white pigments". For routine identification, the Belgian Customs Laboratory first analysed both samples by gas-chromatography mass-spectrometry and Fourier-Transform Infrared spectroscopy. The information obtained by these techniques is essential and can give an indication of the chemical structure of an unknown substance but not the complete identification of its structure. To bridge this gap, scientific and technical support is ensured by the Joint Research Centre (JRC) to the European Commission Directorate General for Taxation and Customs Unions (DG TAXUD) and the Customs Laboratory European Network (CLEN) through an Administrative Arrangement for fast recognition of NPS and identification of unknown chemicals. The samples were sent to the JRC for a complete characterization using advanced techniques and chemoinformatic tools. The aim of this study was also to encourage the development of a science-based policy driven approach on NPS. These samples were fully characterized and identified as 5F-AMB and PX-3 using (1)H and (13)C nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), high-resolution tandem mass-spectrometry (HR-MS/MS) and Raman spectroscopy. A chemoinformatic platform was used to manage, unify analytical data from multiple techniques and instruments, and combine it with chemical and structural information.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joana Lobo Vicente
- European Commission, Joint Research Centre, Institute for Health and Consumer Protection (IHCP), Chemical Assessment and Testing Unit, via E. Fermi, 2749, TP 281, I-21020 Ispra (VA), Italy.
| | - Hubert Chassaigne
- European Commission, Joint Research Centre, Institute for Health and Consumer Protection (IHCP), Chemical Assessment and Testing Unit, via E. Fermi, 2749, TP 281, I-21020 Ispra (VA), Italy
| | - Margaret V Holland
- European Commission, Joint Research Centre, Institute for Health and Consumer Protection (IHCP), Chemical Assessment and Testing Unit, via E. Fermi, 2749, TP 281, I-21020 Ispra (VA), Italy
| | - Fabiano Reniero
- European Commission, Joint Research Centre, Institute for Health and Consumer Protection (IHCP), Chemical Assessment and Testing Unit, via E. Fermi, 2749, TP 281, I-21020 Ispra (VA), Italy
| | - Kamil Kolář
- European Commission, Joint Research Centre, Institute for Health and Consumer Protection (IHCP), Chemical Assessment and Testing Unit, via E. Fermi, 2749, TP 281, I-21020 Ispra (VA), Italy; Czech Agriculture and Food inspection Authority, Květná 15, 603 00 Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Salvatore Tirendi
- European Commission, Joint Research Centre, Institute for Health and Consumer Protection (IHCP), Chemical Assessment and Testing Unit, via E. Fermi, 2749, TP 281, I-21020 Ispra (VA), Italy
| | - Ine Vandecasteele
- European Commission, Joint Research Centre, Institute for Environment and Sustainability (IES), Sustainability Assessment Unit, via E. Fermi, 2749, TP 291, I-21020 Ispra (VA), Italy
| | - Inge Vinckier
- Laboratory of Customs & Excises, Blijde Inkomststraat 20, B-3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Claude Guillou
- European Commission, Joint Research Centre, Institute for Health and Consumer Protection (IHCP), Chemical Assessment and Testing Unit, via E. Fermi, 2749, TP 281, I-21020 Ispra (VA), Italy
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Identification and characterization of a new designer drug thiothinone in seized products. Forensic Toxicol 2015. [DOI: 10.1007/s11419-015-0289-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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Odoardi S, Fisichella M, Romolo FS, Strano-Rossi S. High-throughput screening for new psychoactive substances (NPS) in whole blood by DLLME extraction and UHPLC–MS/MS analysis. J Chromatogr B Analyt Technol Biomed Life Sci 2015. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jchromb.2015.07.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 70] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
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Kerrigan S, Savage M, Cavazos C, Bella P. Thermal Degradation of Synthetic Cathinones: Implications for Forensic Toxicology. J Anal Toxicol 2015; 40:1-11. [PMID: 26294756 DOI: 10.1093/jat/bkv099] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The synthetic cathinones represent an important class of designer drugs. The widespread attention and publicity associated with these psychostimulants have resulted in numerous legislative actions at state and federal levels throughout the USA. These amphetamine-like compounds are characterized by a β-keto functional group. Although the synthetic cathinones share many properties of their phenethylamine counterparts, the presence of the ketone moiety is responsible for a number of unique and distinct differences in terms of their chemical characteristics and properties. Thermal degradation of methcathinone was first reported several decades ago but has received limited attention. In this study, we identified in situ thermal degradation products for 18 cathinones during gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) analysis. Oxidative degradation arises from the loss of two hydrogens, yielding a characteristic 2 Da mass shift. Degradation products were characterized by prominent iminium base peaks with mass-to-charge ratios 2 Da lower than the parent drug, and in the case of the pyrrolidine-containing cathinones, prominent molecular ions arising from the 2,3-enamine. Chromatographic and mass spectroscopic data are described for 4-ethylmethcathinone, 4-methylethcathinone, buphedrone, butylone, ethcathinone, ethylone, flephedrone, 3,4-methylenedioxy-α-pyrrolidinobutiophenone, 3,4-methylenedioxypyrovalerone, mephedrone, methcathinone, methedrone, methylone, 4-methyl-α-pyrrolidinobutiophenone, naphyrone, pentedrone, pentylone and pyrovalerone. Degradation was minimized by lowering injection temperatures, residence time in the inlet and eliminating active sites during chromatographic analysis. Chromatographic and mass spectral data for the cathinone degradation products are presented and discussed within the context of forensic toxicological analysis, selection of appropriate instrumental methods and implications for the interpretation of results.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Kerrigan
- Department of Forensic Science, College of Criminal Justice, Sam Houston State University, Box 2525, 1003 Bowers Boulevard, Huntsville, TX 77341, USA
| | - Megan Savage
- Department of Forensic Science, College of Criminal Justice, Sam Houston State University, Box 2525, 1003 Bowers Boulevard, Huntsville, TX 77341, USA
| | - Cassandra Cavazos
- Department of Forensic Science, College of Criminal Justice, Sam Houston State University, Box 2525, 1003 Bowers Boulevard, Huntsville, TX 77341, USA
| | - Paige Bella
- Department of Forensic Science, College of Criminal Justice, Sam Houston State University, Box 2525, 1003 Bowers Boulevard, Huntsville, TX 77341, USA
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Lee D, Chronister CW, Hoyer J, Goldberger BA. Ethylone-Related Deaths: Toxicological Findings. J Anal Toxicol 2015; 39:567-71. [DOI: 10.1093/jat/bkv053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
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