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Hulme MC, Hayatbakhsh A, Brignall RM, Gilbert N, Costello A, Schofield CJ, Williamson DC, Kemsley EK, Sutcliffe OB, Mewis RE. Detection, discrimination and quantification of amphetamine, cathinone and nor-ephedrine regioisomers using benchtop 1 H and 19 F nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy. MAGNETIC RESONANCE IN CHEMISTRY : MRC 2023; 61:73-82. [PMID: 33786881 DOI: 10.1002/mrc.5156] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2021] [Revised: 03/10/2021] [Accepted: 03/23/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Amphetamine and cathinone derivatives are abused recreationally due to the sense of euphoria they provide to the user. Methodologies for the rapid detection of the drug derivative present in a seized sample, or an indication of the drug class, are beneficial to law enforcement and healthcare providers. Identifying the drug class is prudent because derivatisation of these drugs, to produce regioisomers, for example, occurs frequently to circumvent global and local drug laws. Thus, newly encountered derivatives might not be present in a spectral library. Employment of benchtop nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) could be used to provide rapid analysis of seized samples as well as identifying the class of drug present. Discrimination of individual amphetamine-, methcathinone-, N-ethylcathinone and nor-ephedrine-derived fluorinated and methylated regioisomers is achieved herein using qualitative automated 1 H NMR analysis and compared to gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) data. Two seized drug samples, SS1 and SS2, were identified to contain 4-fluoroamphetamine by 1 H NMR (match score median = 0.9933) and GC-MS (RRt = 5.42-5.43 min). The amount of 4-fluoroamphetamine present was 42.8%-43.4% w/w and 48.7%-49.2% w/w for SS1 and SS2, respectively, from quantitative 19 F NMR analysis, which is in agreement with the amount determined by GC-MS (39.9%-41.4% w/w and 49.0%-49.3% w/w). The total time for the qualitative 1 H NMR and quantitative 19 F NMR analysis is ~10 min. This contrasts to ~40 min for the GC-MS method. The NMR method also benefits from minimal sample preparation. Thus, benchtop NMR affords rapid, and discriminatory, analysis of the drug present in a seized sample.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew C Hulme
- Department of Natural Sciences, Faculty of Science and Engineering, Manchester Metropolitan University, Manchester, UK
- MANchester DRug Analysis and Knowledge Exchange (MANDRAKE), Manchester Metropolitan University, Manchester, UK
| | - Armita Hayatbakhsh
- Department of Natural Sciences, Faculty of Science and Engineering, Manchester Metropolitan University, Manchester, UK
| | | | - Nicolas Gilbert
- Department of Natural Sciences, Faculty of Science and Engineering, Manchester Metropolitan University, Manchester, UK
- MANchester DRug Analysis and Knowledge Exchange (MANDRAKE), Manchester Metropolitan University, Manchester, UK
| | - Andrew Costello
- MANchester DRug Analysis and Knowledge Exchange (MANDRAKE), Manchester Metropolitan University, Manchester, UK
- Greater Manchester Police, Openshaw Complex, Manchester, UK
| | - Christopher J Schofield
- MANchester DRug Analysis and Knowledge Exchange (MANDRAKE), Manchester Metropolitan University, Manchester, UK
- Greater Manchester Police, Openshaw Complex, Manchester, UK
| | | | - E Kate Kemsley
- Quadram Institute Bioscience, Norwich Research Park, Norwich, UK
| | - Oliver B Sutcliffe
- Department of Natural Sciences, Faculty of Science and Engineering, Manchester Metropolitan University, Manchester, UK
- MANchester DRug Analysis and Knowledge Exchange (MANDRAKE), Manchester Metropolitan University, Manchester, UK
| | - Ryan E Mewis
- Department of Natural Sciences, Faculty of Science and Engineering, Manchester Metropolitan University, Manchester, UK
- MANchester DRug Analysis and Knowledge Exchange (MANDRAKE), Manchester Metropolitan University, Manchester, UK
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Exploring the Baseline Knowledge and Experience of Healthcare Professionals in the United Kingdom on Novel Psychoactive Substances. Brain Sci 2020; 10:brainsci10030142. [PMID: 32131479 PMCID: PMC7139605 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci10030142] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2020] [Revised: 02/16/2020] [Accepted: 02/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective: This survey aimed to explore knowledge and experience on novel psychoactive substances (NPS) of healthcare professionals (HCPs). The study also aimed to assess how HCPs would like to improve their knowledge of NPS. Methods: Seventy paper questionnaires were disseminated in 2017 within continuing education events to pharmacists, nurses and general practitioners (GPs). Additionally, 127 online surveys were completed using the Qualtrics platform by other HCPs and mental health nurses in six United Kingdom (UK) independent mental health hospitals long-stay in-patient rehabilitation services. Two educational sessions involving pharmacists and GPs were also held in late 2017 and mid-2018. Knowledge of NPS by HCPs was evaluated prior to the start of the educational events. Evaluation forms were handed out post-sessions to garner feedback, especially on areas for improvement for future sessions. Statistical analysis of data was undertaken using SPSS (V.25). Results: Most HCPs reported only ‘basic’ to ‘intermediate’ NPS knowledge. Substance misuse service staff felt more informed, were more often consulted and had greater confidence regarding NPS compared to hospital and primary care professionals. A negative association was found between the age of the HCP and knowledge of NPS. Most participants expressed a need for regular training and updates as insufficient NPS-related information is currently received. Conclusions: An improvement within the self-reported knowledge of HCPs on NPS is evident in comparison to previous studies. Continued education of HCPs on NPS is fundamental for the provision of improved harm reduction services, which can enhance overall care for NPS service users.
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Soares J, Costa VM, Gaspar H, Santos S, de Lourdes Bastos M, Carvalho F, Capela JP. Structure-cytotoxicity relationship profile of 13 synthetic cathinones in differentiated human SH-SY5Y neuronal cells. Neurotoxicology 2019; 75:158-173. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neuro.2019.08.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2018] [Revised: 07/30/2019] [Accepted: 08/21/2019] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
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The Application of a Desktop NMR Spectrometer in Drug Analysis. Int J Anal Chem 2018; 2018:3104569. [PMID: 30327671 PMCID: PMC6169242 DOI: 10.1155/2018/3104569] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2018] [Accepted: 09/02/2018] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
A desktop NMR spectrometer was used to qualitatively analyze samples in drug-related cases in order to enhance the accuracy of the results and identify new drugs. Twelve known drugs and their derivatives were used to establish the parameters, conditions, and procedures for the methods and validate the feasibility and reliability of the methods. First, 1-D and 2-D NMR data for these 12 drugs and their derivatives were obtained in detail using a 600-MHz NMR spectrometer to create a data library. Next, some of these 12 drugs were analyzed using a Picospin 80 MHz desktop NMR spectrometer to set up the analytical procedure and method. With the procedure and method established, real case samples were analyzed and the data were compared to those obtained by a standard method. The results indicate that the desktop NMR spectrometer is a reliable and promising approach that can be used in criminology to quickly identify whether or not samples contain illegal drugs.
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Guirguis A, Corkery JM, Stair JL, Kirton SB, Zloh M, Schifano F. Intended and unintended use of cathinone mixtures. Hum Psychopharmacol 2017; 32. [PMID: 28657191 DOI: 10.1002/hup.2598] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2016] [Revised: 03/22/2017] [Accepted: 03/23/2017] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Cathinones are one of the most popular categories of new psychoactive substances (NPS) consumed. Cathinones have different pharmacological activities and receptor selectivity for monoamine transporters based on their chemical structures. They are incorporated into NPS mixtures and used with other NPS or 'traditional' drugs. Cathinone use represents significant health risks to individuals and is a public health burden. METHODS Evidence of poly-NPS use with cathinones, seizure information, and literature analyses results on NPS mixtures was systematically gathered from online database sources, including Google Scholar, Scopus, Bluelight, and Drugs-Forum. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION Results highlight the prevalence of NPS with low purity, incorporation of cathinones into NPS mixtures since 2008, and multiple members of the cathinone family being present in individual UK-seized samples. Cathinones were identified as adulterants in NPS marketed as being pure NPS, drugs of abuse, branded products, herbal blends, and products labelled "not for human consumption." Toxicity resulting from cathinone mixtures is unpredictable because key attributes remain largely unknown. Symptoms of intoxication include neuro-psychological, psychiatric, and metabolic symptoms. Proposed treatment includes holistic approaches involving psychosocial, psychiatric and pharmacological interventions. CONCLUSION Raising awareness of NPS, education, and training of health care professionals are paramount in reducing harms related to cathinone use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amira Guirguis
- School of Life and Medical Sciences, Department of Pharmacy, Pharmacology & Postgraduate Medicine, University of Hertfordshire, Hatfield, UK.,Psychopharmaology, Drug Misuse, & Novel Psychoactive Substances Research Unit, University of Hertfordshire, Hatfield, UK
| | - John Martin Corkery
- School of Life and Medical Sciences, Department of Pharmacy, Pharmacology & Postgraduate Medicine, University of Hertfordshire, Hatfield, UK.,Psychopharmaology, Drug Misuse, & Novel Psychoactive Substances Research Unit, University of Hertfordshire, Hatfield, UK
| | - Jacqueline Leslie Stair
- School of Life and Medical Sciences, Department of Pharmacy, Pharmacology & Postgraduate Medicine, University of Hertfordshire, Hatfield, UK.,Psychopharmaology, Drug Misuse, & Novel Psychoactive Substances Research Unit, University of Hertfordshire, Hatfield, UK
| | - Stewart Brian Kirton
- School of Life and Medical Sciences, Department of Pharmacy, Pharmacology & Postgraduate Medicine, University of Hertfordshire, Hatfield, UK.,Psychopharmaology, Drug Misuse, & Novel Psychoactive Substances Research Unit, University of Hertfordshire, Hatfield, UK
| | - Mire Zloh
- School of Life and Medical Sciences, Department of Pharmacy, Pharmacology & Postgraduate Medicine, University of Hertfordshire, Hatfield, UK.,Psychopharmaology, Drug Misuse, & Novel Psychoactive Substances Research Unit, University of Hertfordshire, Hatfield, UK
| | - Fabrizio Schifano
- School of Life and Medical Sciences, Department of Pharmacy, Pharmacology & Postgraduate Medicine, University of Hertfordshire, Hatfield, UK.,Psychopharmaology, Drug Misuse, & Novel Psychoactive Substances Research Unit, University of Hertfordshire, Hatfield, UK
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Batisse A, Marillier M, Chevallier C, Bourgogne E, Grégoire M, Laprévote O, Djezzar S. “NRG-3”: What's in this? TOXICOLOGIE ANALYTIQUE ET CLINIQUE 2017. [DOI: 10.1016/j.toxac.2016.12.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
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Gaspar H, Bronze S, Ciríaco S, Queirós CR, Matias A, Rodrigues J, Oliveira C, Cordeiro C, Santos S. 4F-PBP (4'-fluoro-α-pyrrolidinobutyrophenone), a new substance of abuse: Structural characterization and purity NMR profiling. Forensic Sci Int 2015; 252:168-76. [PMID: 26005857 DOI: 10.1016/j.forsciint.2015.05.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2015] [Revised: 04/27/2015] [Accepted: 05/03/2015] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
The rapidly growing problem of new psychoactive substances (NPS) makes the time management for international control a real challenge, with the traditional detection methods becoming increasingly inadequate. NPS screening technologies, such as NMR, which allows multiple substances to be detected, characterized and quantified simultaneously from a single sample, offers a rapid solution to this problem. This study describes the application of NMR to the simultaneous detection, characterization and quantification of samples of white powders seized by the Portuguese Police. 4F-PBP (4'-fluoro-α-pyrolidinobutyrophenone) a new synthetic psychoactive cathinone cut with myo-inositol was found in two seized products. The structural characterization of 4F-PBP was elucidated in the mixture, and confirmed after isolation from the matrix by (1)H, (13)C, (19)F NMR and MS. Myo-inositol was found for the first time as a cutting agent of cathinones. Furthermore another seized product was characterized as being MDPBP, with a high degree of purity, and its spectroscopic elucidation enabled the correction of (13)C NMR literature assignments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Helena Gaspar
- Centro de Química e Bioquímica, Faculdade de Ciências, Universidade de Lisboa, Campo Grande, 1749-016 Lisboa, Portugal.
| | - Soraia Bronze
- Centro de Química e Bioquímica, Faculdade de Ciências, Universidade de Lisboa, Campo Grande, 1749-016 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Sara Ciríaco
- Centro de Química e Bioquímica, Faculdade de Ciências, Universidade de Lisboa, Campo Grande, 1749-016 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Cláudio Rafael Queirós
- Centro de Química e Bioquímica, Faculdade de Ciências, Universidade de Lisboa, Campo Grande, 1749-016 Lisboa, Portugal; Laboratório de Polícia Cientifica da Polícia Judiciária, Novo edifício-sede da Polícia Judiciária, Rua Gomes Freire, 169-007 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Ana Matias
- Centro de Química e Bioquímica, Faculdade de Ciências, Universidade de Lisboa, Campo Grande, 1749-016 Lisboa, Portugal; Laboratório de Polícia Cientifica da Polícia Judiciária, Novo edifício-sede da Polícia Judiciária, Rua Gomes Freire, 169-007 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - João Rodrigues
- Laboratório de Polícia Cientifica da Polícia Judiciária, Novo edifício-sede da Polícia Judiciária, Rua Gomes Freire, 169-007 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Cristina Oliveira
- Centro de Química Estrutural, Faculdade de Ciências, Universidade de Lisboa, Campo Grande, 1749-016 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Carlos Cordeiro
- Centro de Química e Bioquímica, Faculdade de Ciências, Universidade de Lisboa, Campo Grande, 1749-016 Lisboa, Portugal; Laboratório de FTICR e espectrometria de massa estrutural, Faculdade de Ciências, Universidade de Lisboa, Campo Grande, 1749-016 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Susana Santos
- Centro de Química e Bioquímica, Faculdade de Ciências, Universidade de Lisboa, Campo Grande, 1749-016 Lisboa, Portugal
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