1
|
Gupta R, Chong HYC, Pastor A, Bonomo Y. Two new cases of poppy seed tea dependence: using new formulations for an old condition. Intern Med J 2024; 54:1585. [PMID: 39239950 DOI: 10.1111/imj.16500] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2024] [Accepted: 06/26/2024] [Indexed: 09/07/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Rachit Gupta
- Department of Addiction Medicine, St Vincent's Hospital, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Hae-Young C Chong
- Department of Addiction Medicine, St Vincent's Hospital, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Adolescent Medicine, Royal Children's Hospital, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Adam Pastor
- Department of Addiction Medicine, St Vincent's Hospital, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Health Sciences, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Yvonne Bonomo
- Department of Addiction Medicine, St Vincent's Hospital, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Health Sciences, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Kern SE, Voelker SE, Lorenz LM, Dicken RD, Sterling ME, Mohrhaus AS, Toomey VM. Comparison of direct analysis in real-time mass spectrometry, atmospheric solids analysis probe-mass spectrometry, and ion mobility spectrometry for ensuring food safety by rapid screening of poppy seeds. Anal Bioanal Chem 2024; 416:827-837. [PMID: 37999721 DOI: 10.1007/s00216-023-05042-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2023] [Revised: 10/31/2023] [Accepted: 11/03/2023] [Indexed: 11/25/2023]
Abstract
The opium poppy (Papaver somniferum) is a global commercial crop that has been historically valued for both medicinal and culinary purposes. Naturally occurring opium alkaloids including morphine, codeine, thebaine, noscapine, and papaverine are found primarily in the latex produced by the plant. If the plant is allowed to fully mature, poppy seeds that do not contain the opium alkaloids will form within the pods and may be used in the food industry. It is possible for the seeds to become contaminated with alkaloids by the latex during harvesting, posing a potential health risk for consumers. In the USA, there have been more than 600 reported adverse events including 19 fatalities that may be linked to the consumption of a contaminated poppy-containing product such as home-brewed poppy seed tea. Unwashed poppy seeds and pods may be purchased over the Internet and shipped worldwide. The Forensic Chemistry Center, US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has evaluated several mass spectrometers (MS) capable of rapid screening to be used for high-throughput analysis of samples such as poppy seeds. These include a direct analysis in real-time (DART) ambient ionization source coupled to a single-quadrupole MS, an atmospheric solids analysis probe (ASAP) ionization source coupled to the same MS, and ion mobility spectrometers (IMS). These instruments have been used to analyze 17 poppy seed samples for the presence of alkaloids, and the results were compared to data obtained using liquid chromatography with mass spectral detection (LC-MS/MS). Results from the 17 poppy seed samples indicate that the DART-MS, ASAP-MS, and IMS devices detect many of the same alkaloids confirmed during the LC-MS/MS analyses, although both the false-positive and false-negative rates are higher, possibly due to the non-homogeneity of the samples and the lack of chromatographic separation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sara E Kern
- Food and Drug Administration/Office of Regulatory Affairs/Office of Regulatory Science/Forensic Chemistry Center, 6751 Steger Drive, Cincinnati, OH, 45237, USA.
| | - Sarah E Voelker
- Food and Drug Administration/Office of Regulatory Affairs/Office of Regulatory Science/Forensic Chemistry Center, 6751 Steger Drive, Cincinnati, OH, 45237, USA
| | - Lisa M Lorenz
- Food and Drug Administration/Office of Regulatory Affairs/Office of Regulatory Science/Forensic Chemistry Center, 6751 Steger Drive, Cincinnati, OH, 45237, USA
| | - Rachel D Dicken
- Food and Drug Administration/Office of Regulatory Affairs/Office of Regulatory Science/Forensic Chemistry Center, 6751 Steger Drive, Cincinnati, OH, 45237, USA
| | - Megan E Sterling
- Food and Drug Administration/Office of Regulatory Affairs/Office of Regulatory Science/Forensic Chemistry Center, 6751 Steger Drive, Cincinnati, OH, 45237, USA
| | - Angie S Mohrhaus
- Food and Drug Administration/Office of Regulatory Affairs/Office of Regulatory Science/Forensic Chemistry Center, 6751 Steger Drive, Cincinnati, OH, 45237, USA
| | - Valerie M Toomey
- Food and Drug Administration/Office of Regulatory Affairs/Office of Regulatory Science/Forensic Chemistry Center, 6751 Steger Drive, Cincinnati, OH, 45237, USA
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Graham K, Houston R. Evaluation of chloroplast DNA barcoding markers to individualize Papaver somniferum for forensic intelligence purposes. Int J Legal Med 2024; 138:267-275. [PMID: 35788906 DOI: 10.1007/s00414-022-02862-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2022] [Accepted: 06/24/2022] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
Abstract
The opium poppy, Papaver somniferum L., is a forensically important plant due to the medicinal and illegal uses for the milky latex stored in the pods. This latex contains the alkaloids morphine, codeine, and thebaine that are used for their analgesic properties and/or for synthesizing other opioids. However, these compounds are highly addictive and have caused a national opioid epidemic. Two other Papaver species, P. setigerum DC. and P. bracteatum Lindl., are also of forensic interest because they pose both forensic and legal issues. They are largely uncontrolled under the Controlled Substances Act, making these species a common defense strategy. Current morphological and chemical identification methods have been moderately successful but have drawbacks. There is also a lack of sequencing data available. Therefore, exploiting the genome using chloroplast DNA barcoding markers could help to accurately identify these species of interest when plant material is taken. This study screened and assessed the genetic variation both between species and within populations of P. somniferum in nine cpDNA barcode regions (ndhF-rpl32, petA-psbJ, rpl32-trnL, rps16-trnQ, trnE-trnT, trnH-psbA, trnL-trnF, rpl16 intron, and psbE-petL). Published reference genomes from the NCBI GenBank database were aligned and compared for an initial in silico screening. Additionally, ten P. somniferum seed samples from various vendors were sequenced and compared across samples and to published reference data at the various barcode regions of interest. This study showed that the regions trnH-psbA and petA-psbJ have promise for utility in individualization for both inter- and intra-species individualization of P. somniferum.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kari Graham
- Department of Forensic Science, Sam Houston State University, 1003 Bowers Blvd, Huntsville, TX, 77340, USA
| | - Rachel Houston
- Department of Forensic Science, Sam Houston State University, 1003 Bowers Blvd, Huntsville, TX, 77340, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Casado-Hidalgo G, Morante-Zarcero S, Pérez-Quintanilla D, Sierra I. Design and Optimisation of Sustainable Sample Treatments Based on Ultrasound-Assisted Extraction and Strong Cation-Exchange Purification with Functionalised SBA-15 for Opium Alkaloids in Ground Poppy Seeds. Toxins (Basel) 2023; 15:672. [PMID: 38133176 PMCID: PMC10747185 DOI: 10.3390/toxins15120672] [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: 09/28/2023] [Revised: 11/13/2023] [Accepted: 11/22/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023] Open
Abstract
An analysis methodology was optimised and validated for the quantification of opium alkaloids (OAs) in ground poppy seeds. This involved ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE) and solid-phase extraction (SPE) purification before analysis using a high-performance liquid chromatography mass spectrometry detector (HPLC-MS/MS). UAE was optimised through the design of experiments with three factors and a three-level full factorial design. For SPE optimisation, a commercial material was compared with a previously synthesised material of SBA-15 silica functionalised with sulfonic groups (SBA-15-SO3-). The synthesised material demonstrated superior efficiency with only 25 mg and proved to be reusable for up to four cycles. The methodology was properly validated in terms of linearity, limits of detection and quantification, and selectivity. Matrix effects were negligible; adequate recovery values (85-100%) and inter-day and intra-day precision (≤15%) were obtained. The greenness of the method was evaluated with the AGREEprep metric scale, being more environmentally friendly compared to OA analysis methods. Finally, the method was applied to different samples of ground poppy seeds and revealed a concentration of 140 mg/kg of morphine equivalents in one of the samples, surpassing the legislatively established limits by sevenfold. This highlights the need to analyse these types of samples to mitigate potential public health issues.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Isabel Sierra
- Departamento de Tecnología Química y Ambiental, E.S.C.E.T, Universidad Rey Juan Carlos, C/Tulipán s/n, Móstoles, 28933 Madrid, Spain; (G.C.-H.); (S.M.-Z.); (D.P.-Q.)
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Burgess A, Craig J, Miller EN, Clear B, Weiner SG. Treatment of poppy seed tea misuse with buprenorphine in a telehealth practice: a case series. J Addict Dis 2023:1-6. [PMID: 37909343 DOI: 10.1080/10550887.2023.2273191] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Poppy seed tea (PST) is a legally obtainable source of opiates made from the seeds of the opium poppy. Our large telehealth opioid use disorder (OUD) provider group has treated several patients with PST misuse. METHODS We retrospectively identified patients with primary PST use disorder treated with buprenorphine in a telehealth-only practice with first visits between January 2021 and December 2022. Patients were identified by having the word "poppy" in their enrollment note, and then charts were reviewed to determine which patients had primary PST misuse. Demographics, buprenorphine doses, and retention in treatment were recorded. RESULTS We identified 18 patients treated for PST use disorder. Fifteen (83.3%) identified as male, mean age was 40.4 (standard deviation 8.8) years, and patients resided in 10 different U.S. states. Median starting buprenorphine dose was 2 mg (interquartile range (IQR) 2-2.5 mg). Median stabilizing dose of buprenorphine was 16 mg daily (IQR 15-20.5 mg). As of June 2023, 5 patients (27.8%) were still in active treatment. Two patients (11.1%) had completed a planned, elective taper. Ten patients (55.6%) had unplanned discontinuation from treatment, and 3 patients (16.7%) discontinued for other reasons. CONCLUSIONS To our knowledge, this is the largest case series describing PST misuse in the U.S., and the first to demonstrate its treatment in the telehealth setting. PST use disorder is treatable with buprenorphine with doses similar to treatment of other opioid use disorders. Clinicians who treat patients with OUD should be aware of PST use disorder and its treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Amelia Burgess
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Julie Craig
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Emily N Miller
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Brian Clear
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Scott G Weiner
- Bicycle Health Medical Group, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Isoardi KZ, Roberts DM, Holford AG, Brown JA, Griffiths A, Soderstrom J, McDonald C, Gerostamoulos D, Sakrajda P, Turner C, Yates H, Gunja N, Greene S. A cluster of acute thebaine poisonings from non-food grade poppy seeds in the Australian food supply. Clin Toxicol (Phila) 2023; 61:639-643. [PMID: 37855308 DOI: 10.1080/15563650.2023.2265053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2023] [Accepted: 09/25/2023] [Indexed: 10/20/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Poppy seed tea is used for its opioid effects and contains multiple opium alkaloids, including morphine, codeine, papaverine, and thebaine. Animal studies indicate thebaine has strychnine-like properties, but there is limited literature describing human thebaine poisoning. We describe a cluster of acute thebaine poisoning in people ingesting tea made using poppy seeds with high thebaine content that entered the Australian food supply chain. METHODS This is an observational study of patients poisoned after drinking poppy seed tea. Cases were identified by three prospective toxicovigilance systems: the Emerging Drug Network of Australia collaboration, the New South Wales Prescription, Recreational and Illicit Substance Evaluation program, and the Emerging Drugs Network of Australia Victoria study. We report characteristics of clinical toxicity in cases with reported ingestion of poppy seed tea and analytical confirmation of thebaine exposure. RESULTS Forty cases presenting with multi-system toxicity following poppy seed tea ingestion were identified across seven Australian states/territories from November 2022 to January 2023. Blood testing in 23 cases confirmed high thebaine concentrations. All 23 were male (median age 35, range 16-71 years). All patients experienced muscle spasms. Rigidity was described in nine, convulsions in six, while rhabdomyolysis, acute kidney injury, and metabolic acidosis occurred in five patients. There were two cardiac arrests. The thebaine median admission blood concentration was 1.6 mg/L, with a range of 0.1-5.6 mg/L, and was the dominant opium alkaloid in all samples. Convulsions, acute kidney injury, metabolic acidosis, and cardiac arrest were associated with increasing median thebaine concentrations. Four patients were managed in the Intensive Care Unit, with two receiving continuous kidney replacement therapy (one also received intermittent haemodialysis) for kidney injury. There was one death. CONCLUSIONS Thebaine toxicity, like strychnine poisoning, resulted in neuromuscular excitation characterized by muscle spasm, rigidity, and convulsions. Severe toxicity, including acute kidney injury, metabolic acidosis, and cardiac arrest, appears dose-dependent.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Katherine Z Isoardi
- Clinical Toxicology Unit, Princess Alexandra Hospital, Brisbane, Australia
- Queensland Poisons Information Centre, Queensland Children's Hospital, Brisbane, Australia
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Darren M Roberts
- NSW Poisons Information Centre, Sydney Children's Hospitals Network, Sydney, Australia
- Edith Collins Centre, Drug Health Services, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Sydney, Australia
| | - Amanda G Holford
- Clinical Toxicology Unit, Princess Alexandra Hospital, Brisbane, Australia
- Queensland Poisons Information Centre, Queensland Children's Hospital, Brisbane, Australia
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Jared A Brown
- NSW Poisons Information Centre, Sydney Children's Hospitals Network, Sydney, Australia
- Centre for Alcohol and Other Drugs, NSW Ministry of Health, Sydney, Australia
| | - Andrew Griffiths
- Forensic Toxicology, Forensic and Scientific Services, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Jessamine Soderstrom
- Centre of Clinical Research in Emergency Medicine, Emergency Department, Royal Perth Hospital, Perth, Australia
| | - Catherine McDonald
- Forensic Toxicology, Forensic & Analytical Science Service, NSW Health Pathology, Sydney, Australia
| | - Dimitri Gerostamoulos
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Monash University, Victorian Institute of Forensic Medicine, Southbank, Victoria, Australia
| | - Paul Sakrajda
- Forensic Science Laboratory, ChemCentre, Perth, Australia
| | - Claire Turner
- NSW Poisons Information Centre, Sydney Children's Hospitals Network, Sydney, Australia
- Centre for Alcohol and Other Drugs, NSW Ministry of Health, Sydney, Australia
| | - Hans Yates
- Organic Chemistry, Forensic and Scientific Services, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Naren Gunja
- NSW Poisons Information Centre, Sydney Children's Hospitals Network, Sydney, Australia
- Dept of Clinical Pharmacology & Toxicology, Western Sydney Health, Sydney, Australia
| | - Shaun Greene
- Victorian Poisons Information Centre, Austin Hospital, Melbourne, Australia
- Department of Critical Care, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Vale A. Poisoning from non-food grade poppy seeds. Clin Toxicol (Phila) 2023; 61:625-628. [PMID: 37988119 DOI: 10.1080/15563650.2023.2274218] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Allister Vale
- City Hospital, Birmingham and University of Birmingham, UK
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Avula B, Katragunta K, Adams SJ, Wang YH, Chittiboyina AG, Khan IA. Applicability of LC-QToF and Microscopical Tools in Combating the Sophisticated, Economically Motivated Adulteration of Poppy Seeds. Foods 2023; 12:foods12071510. [PMID: 37048333 PMCID: PMC10094636 DOI: 10.3390/foods12071510] [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: 02/08/2023] [Revised: 03/24/2023] [Accepted: 03/30/2023] [Indexed: 04/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Morphine and codeine are the two principal opiates found in the opium poppy (Papaver somniferum L.) and are therapeutically used for pain management. Poppy seeds with low opiates are primarily used for culinary purposes due to their nutritional and sensory attributes. Intentional adulteration of poppy seeds is common, often combined with immature, less expensive, exhausted, or substituted with morphologically similar seeds, viz., amaranth, quinoa, and sesame. For a safer food supply chain, preventive measures must be implemented to mitigate contamination or adulteration. Moreover, the simultaneous analysis of P. somniferum and its adulterants is largely unknown. Pre- and post-processing further complicate the alkaloid content and may pose a significant health hazard. To address these issues, two independent methods were investigated with eight botanically verified and fifteen commercial samples. Microscopical features were established for the authenticity of raw poppy seeds. Morphine, codeine, and thebaine quantities ranged from 0.8-223, 0.2-386, and 0.1-176 mg/kg, respectively, using LC-QToF. In most cases, conventional opiates have a higher content than papaverine and noscapine. The analytical methodology provided a chemical profile of 47 compounds that can be effectively applied to distinguish poppy seeds from their adulterants and may serve as an effective tool to combat ongoing adulteration.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bharathi Avula
- National Center for Natural Products Research, School of Pharmacy, University of Mississippi, University, MS 38677, USA
| | - Kumar Katragunta
- National Center for Natural Products Research, School of Pharmacy, University of Mississippi, University, MS 38677, USA
| | - Sebastian John Adams
- National Center for Natural Products Research, School of Pharmacy, University of Mississippi, University, MS 38677, USA
| | - Yan-Hong Wang
- National Center for Natural Products Research, School of Pharmacy, University of Mississippi, University, MS 38677, USA
| | - Amar G Chittiboyina
- National Center for Natural Products Research, School of Pharmacy, University of Mississippi, University, MS 38677, USA
| | - Ikhlas A Khan
- National Center for Natural Products Research, School of Pharmacy, University of Mississippi, University, MS 38677, USA
- Division of Pharmacognosy, Department of Biomolecular Sciences, School of Pharmacy, University of Mississippi, University, MS 38677, USA
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Pulsed ultrasound-assisted extraction followed by purification with SBA-15 for the control of opium alkaloids in biscuits and sponge cakes. Microchem J 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.microc.2022.108059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
|
10
|
Chang M, Kim JY, Lee H, Lee EJ, Lee WH, Moon S, Choe S, Choung CM. Development of diagnostic SNP markers and a novel SNP genotyping assay for distinguishing opium poppies. Forensic Sci Int 2022; 339:111416. [DOI: 10.1016/j.forsciint.2022.111416] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2022] [Revised: 07/14/2022] [Accepted: 08/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
|
11
|
Evaluation of Thermal Degradation of Tropane and Opium Alkaloids in Gluten-Free Corn Breadsticks Samples Contaminated with Stramonium Seeds and Baked with Poppy Seeds under Different Conditions. Foods 2022; 11:foods11152196. [PMID: 35892780 PMCID: PMC9330423 DOI: 10.3390/foods11152196] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2022] [Revised: 06/24/2022] [Accepted: 07/21/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
In this work, the thermal degradation of tropane and opium alkaloids was studied in samples of breadsticks prepared with corn flour, contaminated with seeds of Datura stramonium, and containing seeds of Papaver somniferum L. A total of seven different samples were prepared and eight alkaloids were studied, three tropane (atropine, scopolamine, and anisodamine) and five opium (morphine, codeine, thebaine, papaverine, and noscapine) alkaloids. For this purpose, a fast, easy and efficient method based on solid-liquid extraction (SLE) prior to the analysis by high-performance liquid chromatography with a diode array detector (HPLC-DAD) was developed and validated. Thermal degradation studies showed a decrease in the TAs and OAs content under baking (180 °C for 20 min) that was between 7–65% for atropine, depending on the preparation conditions used, between 35–49% for scopolamine and anisodamine, up to 100% for morphine and codeine and between 14–58% for thebaine, papaverine, and noscapine. Results also evidenced that degradation of morphine and codeine was higher when the seeds were added as topping to the breadsticks.
Collapse
|
12
|
Casado-Hidalgo G, Martínez-García G, Morante-Zarcero S, Pérez-Quintanilla D, Sierra I. New Validated Method for the Determination of Six Opium Alkaloids in Poppy Seed-Containing Bakery Products by High-Performance Liquid Chromatography-Tandem Mass Spectrometry after Magnetic Solid-Phase Extraction. JOURNAL OF AGRICULTURAL AND FOOD CHEMISTRY 2022; 70:7594-7606. [PMID: 35674269 PMCID: PMC9228061 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jafc.2c01664] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2022] [Revised: 05/24/2022] [Accepted: 05/31/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Bakery products containing poppy seeds are increasingly being commercialized. These seeds may be contaminated with latex from the Papaver somniferum L. plant rich in opium alkaloids (OAs). Therefore, health authorities demand the development of analytical methods to control them. In this study, an efficient and simple method was developed and validated for the first time to analyze six OAs in bakery products by high-performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry. For this purpose, a solid-liquid extraction was optimized, and then a magnetic material [magnetite surface-modified with Fe(III) terephthalate, denoted as Fe3O4@TPA-Fe] was used for a fast magnetic solid-phase extraction. The method has been validated with adequate recoveries (70-110%) and relative standard deviations (<20%) and without matrix effects. Nine bakery samples (five breadsticks and four sliced bread) were analyzed; breadsticks showed low amounts of OAs, but two sliced bread showed higher amounts of OAs than the new amount (1.5 mg/kg) set by the Commission Regulation (EU) 2021/2142.
Collapse
|
13
|
Shetge SA, Redan BW. Assessment of Dry Heating, Water Rinsing, and Baking on Concentrations of the Opium Alkaloid Noscapine in Poppy Seeds. ACS FOOD SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2022; 2:541-547. [PMID: 35558138 PMCID: PMC9087206 DOI: 10.1021/acsfoodscitech.1c00428] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Limited information is available on methods to reduce concentrations of the opium alkaloid noscapine in poppy seeds. A series of experiment were conducted using poppy seeds to evaluate the impact of thermal treatments, water rinsing, and baking on noscapine concentrations. A sample set of commercially available poppy seeds (n=15) was screened for noscapine using liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry. The mean and median noscapine concentrations for poppy seed samples above the limit of quantitation (LOQ) was 89.9 and 28.4 mg kg-1, respectively. Six out of 15 samples were less than the LOQ. Poppy seed samples containing a mean noscapine concentration of 121 mg kg-1 were subjected to dry heat treatments ranging from 120-200 °C and a 5 min rinse with water. Baking experiments were also done by incorporating the poppy seeds into a muffin batter and baking in an oven at 200 °C. The dry heat treatment experiments showed that noscapine degraded at 160-200 °C, with a 50% loss of noscapine observed after 3.44 ± 0.46 min at 200 °C. Although the mean concentration of noscapine decreased when a muffin containing poppy seeds was baked at 200 °C for 16 min, these changes were not statistically significant (P>0.05). Rinsing the poppy seeds with water did not have a significant effect on noscapine concentrations. Together, these data allow for better characterization of potential dietary exposure to noscapine and indicate that certain thermal treatments can be effective for reduction of noscapine in poppy seeds.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shalaka A. Shetge
- Institute for Food Safety and Health, Illinois Institute of Technology, Bedford Park, IL
| | - Benjamin W. Redan
- U.S. Food and Drug Administration, Center for Food Safety and Applied Nutrition, Office of Food Safety, Division of Food Processing Science and Technology, Bedford Park, IL,To whom correspondence should be addressed:
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Hagan S, Achtmeyer CE, Hood C, Hawkins EJ, Williams EC. Opioid use disorder from poppy seed tea successfully treated with buprenorphine in primary care: a case report. Addict Sci Clin Pract 2021; 16:71. [PMID: 34861895 PMCID: PMC8641214 DOI: 10.1186/s13722-021-00280-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2021] [Accepted: 11/16/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Poppy seeds contain morphine and other opioid alkaloids and are commercially available in the United States. Users of poppy seed tea (PST) can consume several hundred morphine milligram equivalents per day, and opioid dependence from PST use can develop. We report a case of a patient with chronic pain and PST use leading to opioid use disorder (OUD). This case represents the first published report of OUD from PST successfully treated with buprenorphine (BUP) in a primary care setting. The provider in this case used a unique model of care with an opioid prescribing support team to deliver safe and effective care. CASE PRESENTATION A 47-year-old man with chronic pain and prescription opioid use presented to primary care to discuss a flare of shoulder pain, and revealed in subsequent conversation a long-standing use of PST to supplement pain control. Attempts at cessation resulted in severe withdrawal symptoms, leading to return to PST use. The primary care provider consulted the VA Puget Sound SUpporting Primary care Providers in Opioid Risk reduction and Treatment (SUPPORT) team to evaluate the patient for OUD. The patient discontinued all opioids, and initiated BUP under the supervision of the primary care provider. He remained on a stable dosage, without relapse, 24 months later. CONCLUSIONS PST, which can be made through purchase of readily available poppy pods, carries risk for development of OUD and overdose. Herein we highlight the utility of a primary care opioid prescribing support team in empowering a primary care provider to prescribe BUP to treat a patient with complex OUD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Scott Hagan
- Department of Medicine, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, WA, USA.
- General Medicine Service, Veterans Affairs (VA) Puget Sound Health Care System Seattle Division, Seattle, WA, USA.
| | - Carol E Achtmeyer
- General Medicine Service, Veterans Affairs (VA) Puget Sound Health Care System Seattle Division, Seattle, WA, USA
- Center of Excellence in Substance Addiction Treatment and Education, Veterans Affairs (VA) Puget Sound Health Care System Seattle Division (S116ATC), 1660 S. Columbian Way, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Carly Hood
- Center of Excellence in Substance Addiction Treatment and Education, Veterans Affairs (VA) Puget Sound Health Care System Seattle Division (S116ATC), 1660 S. Columbian Way, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Eric J Hawkins
- Center of Excellence in Substance Addiction Treatment and Education, Veterans Affairs (VA) Puget Sound Health Care System Seattle Division (S116ATC), 1660 S. Columbian Way, Seattle, WA, USA
- Health Services Research & Development (HSR&D), Seattle Center of Innovation for Veteran-Centered and Value-Driven Care, Veterans Affairs (VA) Puget Sound Health Care System, Seattle, WA, USA
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Emily C Williams
- Health Services Research & Development (HSR&D), Seattle Center of Innovation for Veteran-Centered and Value-Driven Care, Veterans Affairs (VA) Puget Sound Health Care System, Seattle, WA, USA
- Department of Health Systems and Population Health, University of Washington School of Public Health, Seattle, WA, USA
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Stolbach A, Connors N, Nelson L, Kulig K. ACMT Position Statement: Interpretation of Urine Opiate and Opioid Tests. J Med Toxicol 2021; 18:176-179. [PMID: 34780053 DOI: 10.1007/s13181-021-00864-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2021] [Revised: 10/21/2021] [Accepted: 10/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Andrew Stolbach
- Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA.
| | | | - Lewis Nelson
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, Newark, NJ, USA
| | - Ken Kulig
- Toxicology Associates, Prof LLC, Littleton, CO, USA
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Determination of morphine, codeine, and thebaine concentrations from poppy seed tea using magnetic carbon nanotubes facilitated dispersive micro-solid phase extraction and GC-MS analysis. Forensic Sci Int 2021; 329:111052. [PMID: 34688186 DOI: 10.1016/j.forsciint.2021.111052] [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: 06/07/2021] [Revised: 10/04/2021] [Accepted: 10/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
With tightening enforcement and restrictions amid the opioid epidemic, poppy seed tea is consumed as an alternative to mitigate the withdrawal symptoms or as a home remedy to relieve pain and stress. Previously published studies suggested the potential danger of consuming tea brewed with a moderate to a large amount of poppy seed. In this study, the effects of small quantity and repeat brewing on opiate concentrations were evaluated. A dispersive-micro solid phase extraction facilitated by magnetic carbon nanotubes (Mag-CNTs/d-µSPE) was developed, optimized, successfully validated, and applied to ten poppy seed tea samples using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) analysis. A total of ten poppy seed samples were evaluated in this work. Two grams of bulk poppy seeds were brewed with 6 mL of heated and acidified DI water three times. The brewed tea samples were subjected to the validated Mag-CNTs/d-µSPE/GC-MS analysis. The total mean opiate concentrations obtained from three brews were 1.1-1926, 20.2-311, and 9.0-100 mg/kg for morphine, codeine, and thebaine, respectively. The total opiate yields obtained from the small quantity brewing, i.e., 6 g seed in 18 mL tea, in this study may provide minimal analgesic and euphoric effects. Over 80% of the total opiate yield was extracted in the first brew with acidified deionized water from the 10 min brewing period, and opiate yields from the second and third brew were minimal. However, potential overdose could occur for some tea samples when scaled up to the starter quantity of seed suggested for new users.
Collapse
|
17
|
Chang M, Lee EJ, Kim JY, Lee H, Choe S, Moon S. A new minisatellite VNTR marker, Pscp1, discovered for the identification of opium poppy. Forensic Sci Int Genet 2021; 55:102581. [PMID: 34517229 DOI: 10.1016/j.fsigen.2021.102581] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2021] [Revised: 08/18/2021] [Accepted: 08/18/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Opium poppy, a member of the Papaveraceae family, is an ancient herbaceous plant and well-known medical resource in the pharmaceutical industry. However, opium poppies are grown worldwide for producing illicit drugs, significantly increasing the incidence of narcotic drug abuse. Since the narcotic poppy has not yet been genetically investigated, we characterized a novel variable number tandem repeat (VNTR) marker of forensically important poppy species based on the genetic analysis of 164 samples collected from two locations spanning the Jeolla province and Jeju island of South Korea. Comparing analysis of the chloroplast (cp) genome sequences for four representative species of Papaver (Papaver somniferum, Papaver somniferum subs. setigerum, Papaver orientale, and Papaver rhoeas) revealed a unique region with 1-3 repeats for 16 nucleotide motifs in the genome inverted repeat A (IRA, positions 128,651 to 128,698) region. For 16 nucleotide motifs, 3 repeats were found in P. somniferum, and 2 repeats were found in P. somniferum subs. setigerum. Therefore, 10 known and the 133 unknown, seized Papaver species were compared to determine whether the species could be identified via variations in the repeat units. The sizes of a novel VNTR ranged from 181 to 252 bp between the species. Phylogenetic analysis confirmed that a novel VNTR, which we named Pscp1, could clearly distinguish between the narcotic and non-narcotic types of Papaver species based on the patterns of sequence variation. Interestingly, we found that Pscp1 could also distinguish between P. somniferum and P. somniferum subs. setigerum. The regions of eight non-narcotic species displayed similar patterns and also differences were found due to the nucleotide substitution and deletion events. The structural differences of Pscp1 were observed within the two narcotic species or between the narcotic and non-narcotic species, suggesting that these variations may act as a genetic marker. We, therefore, developed a new Pscp1 PCR-capillary electrophoresis (CE) method that can reliably identify the narcotic type of Papaver species. Taken together, our findings suggest that the newly developed Pscp1 can be used as an identification marker of opium poppy, and establish that the Pscp1 genotyping method by PCR-CE is an effective primary screening tool that can also contribute to species discrimination in the field of forensic diagnosis and applications.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Miwha Chang
- Forensic DNA Division, National Forensic Service, Wonju 26460, Republic of Korea
| | - Eun-Jung Lee
- Crime-scene DNA Section, Gwangju Institute, National Forensic Service, Gwangju 57231, Republic of Korea
| | - Joo-Young Kim
- Forensic DNA Division, National Forensic Service, Wonju 26460, Republic of Korea
| | - Haeyong Lee
- Forensic DNA Division, National Forensic Service, Wonju 26460, Republic of Korea
| | - Sanggil Choe
- Forensic Toxicology and Chemistry Division, Seoul Institute, National Forensic Service, Seoul 08036, Republic of Korea
| | - Seohyun Moon
- Forensic DNA Division, National Forensic Service, Wonju 26460, Republic of Korea.
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Casado-Hidalgo G, Pérez-Quintanilla D, Morante-Zarcero S, Sierra I. Mesostructured Silica-Coated Magnetic Nanoparticles to Extract Six Opium Alkaloids in Poppy Seeds Prior to Ultra-High-Performance Liquid Chromatography-Tandem Mass Spectrometry Analysis. Foods 2021; 10:1587. [PMID: 34359458 PMCID: PMC8307897 DOI: 10.3390/foods10071587] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2021] [Revised: 06/28/2021] [Accepted: 07/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
In recent years, health authorities have become increasingly concerned about preventing consumer exposure to opium alkaloids present in Papaver somniferum L. poppy seeds. In this study, a simple, rapid and efficient method has been optimised to determine all main opioids in poppy seeds (morphine, codeine, thebaine, papaverine, noscapine and oripavine) by UHPLC-QqQ-MS/MS. For this purpose, solid-liquid extraction (SLE) of samples was optimised and six magnetic adsorbent materials with a core of Fe3O4 coated with amorphous and mesostructured silica, both functionalised with octadecyl-silane or octyl-silane were characterised and evaluated for magnetic solid-phase extraction (MSPE). The material with the best results was non-functionalised mesostructured silica and, with it, the MSPE procedure was optimised. This method was validated and used to quantify six opioids in 14 edible seed samples (eleven poppy seeds and three seed mixes). Considerable amounts were found (1.5-249.0 mg/kg morphine, <0.2 µg/kg-45.8 mg/kg codeine, <2.4 µg/kg-136.2 mg/kg thebaine, <0.2 µg/kg-27.1 mg/kg papaverine, <0.2 µg/kg-108.7 mg/kg noscapine and <240 µg/kg-33.4 mg/kg oripavine), exceeding maximum limits established in some EU countries and the reference level of morphine in the EU. Furthermore, in some commercial samples for human consumption, inadequate labelling was found because significant amounts of alkaloids were detected even though Papaver rhoeas L. seeds were declared on the product label.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Isabel Sierra
- Departamento de Tecnología Química y Ambiental, E.S.C.E.T., Universidad Rey Juan Carlos, C/Tulipán s/n, Móstoles, 28933 Madrid, Spain; (G.C.-H.); (D.P.-Q.); (S.M.-Z.)
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Li J, Zhang F, Gu Y, Ye Y, Li L, Liu M, Yi X, Yun L. Forensic aspects about fatal morphine intoxication of an unusual body packer: Case report and literature review. FORENSIC SCIENCE INTERNATIONAL: REPORTS 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fsir.2021.100207] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022] Open
|
20
|
Jakobsson G, Truver MT, Wrobel SA, Gréen H, Kronstrand R. Heroin-Related Compounds and Metabolic Ratios in Postmortem Samples Using LC-MS-MS. J Anal Toxicol 2021; 45:215-225. [PMID: 33031535 PMCID: PMC7953417 DOI: 10.1093/jat/bkaa157] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2020] [Revised: 09/14/2020] [Accepted: 10/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Analysis of postmortem samples with the presence of morphine can sometimes be challenging to interpret. Tolerance complicates interpretation of intoxications and causes of death due to overlap in therapeutic and fatal concentrations. Determination of metabolites and metabolic ratios can potentially differentiate between abstinence, continuous administration, and perhaps time of administration. The purpose of this study was to (a) develop and validate a method for quantitation of morphine-3β-D-glucuronide, morphine-6β-D-glucuronide, normorphine, codeine-6β-D-glucuronide, norcodeine, codeine, 6-acetylmorphine, and ethylmorphine in urine using liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry; (b) apply the method to opiate related deaths; (c) compare metabolic ratios in urine in different causes of death (CoD) and after different drug intakes and (d) compare heroin intoxications in rapid and delayed deaths. Validation parameters such as precision, bias, matrix effects, stability, process efficiency, and dilution integrity were assessed and deemed acceptable. Lower limits of quantitation ranged from 0.01–0.2 μg/mL for all analytes. Autopsy cases (n=135) with paired blood and urine samples were analyzed. Cases were divided into three groups based on CoD; opiate intoxication, intoxication with other drugs than opiates, and other CoD. The cases were classified by intake: codeine (n=42), heroin (n=36), morphine (n=49), and ethylmorphine (n=3). Five cases were classified as mixed intakes and excluded. Heroin intoxications (n=35) were divided into rapid (n=15) or delayed (n=20) deaths. Parent drug groups were compared using metabolic ratio morphine-3β-D-glucuronide/morphine and significant differences were observed between codeine vs morphine (p=0.005) and codeine vs heroin (p≤0.0001). Urine and blood concentrations, and metabolic ratios in rapid and delayed heroin intoxications were compared and determined a significant difference for morphine (p=0.001), codeine (p=0.009), 6-acetylmorphine (p=0.02) in urine, and morphine (p=0.02) in blood, but there was no significant difference (p=0.9) between metabolic ratios. Morphine-3β-D-glucuronide results suggested a period of abstinence prior to death in 25% of the heroin intoxications.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gerd Jakobsson
- *Author to whom correspondence should be addressed. E-mail:
| | - Michael T Truver
- Division of Drug Research, Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Linköping University, 581 83, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Sonja A Wrobel
- Department of Forensic Genetics and Forensic Toxicology, National Board of Forensic Medicine, 587 58, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Henrik Gréen
- Division of Drug Research, Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Linköping University, 581 83, Linköping, Sweden
- Department of Forensic Genetics and Forensic Toxicology, National Board of Forensic Medicine, 587 58, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Robert Kronstrand
- Division of Drug Research, Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Linköping University, 581 83, Linköping, Sweden
- Department of Forensic Genetics and Forensic Toxicology, National Board of Forensic Medicine, 587 58, Linköping, Sweden
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Kleinmeier D, Pettengill E, Redan BW. Commentary: Opium Alkaloids in Harvested and Thermally Processed Poppy Seeds. Front Chem 2021; 8:622488. [PMID: 33553107 PMCID: PMC7856138 DOI: 10.3389/fchem.2020.622488] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2020] [Accepted: 12/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Daria Kleinmeier
- U.S. Food and Drug Administration, Center for Food Safety and Applied Nutrition, Office of Food Safety, Bedford Park, IL, United States
| | - Emily Pettengill
- U.S. Food and Drug Administration, Center for Food Safety and Applied Nutrition, Office of Food Safety, Bedford Park, IL, United States
| | - Benjamin W Redan
- U.S. Food and Drug Administration, Center for Food Safety and Applied Nutrition, Office of Food Safety, Bedford Park, IL, United States
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Casado-Hidalgo G, Morante-Zarcero S, Pérez-Quintanilla D, Sierra I. Opium alkaloids in food products: Current and future perspectives. Trends Food Sci Technol 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.tifs.2020.12.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
|
23
|
Greenthal E, Lurie P, Doyon S. Opioid exposure associated with poppy consumption reported to poison control centers and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Clin Toxicol (Phila) 2021; 59:746-755. [PMID: 33435745 DOI: 10.1080/15563650.2020.1866766] [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] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To assess characteristics of exposures to contaminated poppy and identify trends in exposure and poppy-related deaths. METHODS Cross-sectional analysis of adverse events associated with exposure to poppy products (primarily poppy seeds) from the American Association of Poison Control Centers' National Poison Data System (NPDS), 2000-2018, supplemented with analysis of overdoses and deaths related to poppy from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Center for Food Safety and Applied Nutrition's Adverse Event Reporting System (CAERS) (2004-2018), and the FDA Adverse Event Reporting System (FAERS) (1968-2018). RESULTS There were 591 NPDS exposure cases involving poppy between 2000 and 2018 including 392 in persons aged 13+. Rates of intentional exposures in NPDS increased among the age 13+ group over the study period. Most intentional exposures occurred in males in their teens and twenties. NPDS included 18 overdoses and three deaths likely attributable to poppy, most involving poppy seed tea. CAERS and FAERS included five additional deaths likely attributable to opioids in poppy. CONCLUSIONS Including previously reported cases, there are now at least 19 U.S. deaths associated with poppy seeds in the literature. We recommend that practitioners working in opioid treatment and recovery be alert to use of poppy to treat pain and symptoms of withdrawal.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Eva Greenthal
- Center for Science in the Public Interest, Washington, D.C., USA
| | - Peter Lurie
- Center for Science in the Public Interest, Washington, D.C., USA
| | - Suzanne Doyon
- Connecticut Poison Control Center, Department of Emergency Medicine, UConn Health, Connecticut, C.T., USA
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Bishop-Freeman SC, Fox L, Winecker RE, Hudson JS. Death from Poppy Tea Consumption. J Anal Toxicol 2020; 44:734-740. [PMID: 33043985 DOI: 10.1093/jat/bkaa093] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2020] [Revised: 06/26/2020] [Accepted: 07/21/2020] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The historical practice of brewing poppy tea for its opioid-like effects is reoccurring with modern-day substance users. We present four postmortem cases with toxicology results that serve as case studies for the potential hazards of poppy tea ingestion. There is limited information regarding the risks of this practice due to the variability of the morphine content of the opium exuded from the plant. While internet tea recipes offer guidance, differences in poppy cultivation, washing, and infusing time are some of the reasons why the beverage may contain inconsistent and clinically significant alkaloid concentrations for each preparation. Variability in opioid tolerance along with additional drugs taken will impact the overall degree of toxicity experienced from the opiates in the tea. Advancements in the genetic modification of the poppy plant could greatly alter the ratio of alkaloids seen in biological fluids and will be highly dependent on the source of the poppy product. The blood concentrations of free morphine and free codeine in cases 1-3 where the toxicity from the tea was considered the primary cause of death were 0.94 and 0.11 mg/L, 0.62 and 0.034 mg/L, and 0.16 and 0.010 mg/L, respectively. The urine concentrations of morphine and codeine were 13 and 0.94 mg/L in case 1 and 16 and 1.6 mg/L in case 2, respectively. The opium alkaloids thebaine and laudanosine were identified qualitatively by our routine organic base/neutral drug detection procedure.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sandra C Bishop-Freeman
- Office of the Chief Medical Examiner, 4312 District Dr, Raleigh, NC, 27607, USA.,UNC Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, 160 Medical Dr., Chapel Hill, NC, 27559, USA
| | - Lauren Fox
- Office of the Chief Medical Examiner, 4312 District Dr, Raleigh, NC, 27607, USA
| | - Ruth E Winecker
- Center for Forensic Sciences, RTI International, 3040 E Cornwallis Rd., Research Triangle Park, NC, 27709, USA
| | - Jason S Hudson
- Office of the Chief Medical Examiner, 4312 District Dr, Raleigh, NC, 27607, USA
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Jones NS, Comparin JH. Interpol review of controlled substances 2016-2019. Forensic Sci Int Synerg 2020; 2:608-669. [PMID: 33385148 PMCID: PMC7770462 DOI: 10.1016/j.fsisyn.2020.01.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2020] [Accepted: 01/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
This review paper covers the forensic-relevant literature in controlled substances from 2016 to 2019 as a part of the 19th Interpol International Forensic Science Managers Symposium. The review papers are also available at the Interpol website at: https://www.interpol.int/content/download/14458/file/Interpol%20Review%20Papers%202019.pdf.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nicole S. Jones
- RTI International, Applied Justice Research Division, Center for Forensic Sciences, 3040 E. Cornwallis Road, Research Triangle Park, NC, 22709-2194, USA
| | - Jeffrey H. Comparin
- United States Drug Enforcement Administration, Special Testing and Research Laboratory, USA
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Young B, Roman MG, LaRue B, Gangitano D, Houston R. Evaluation of 19 short tandem repeat markers for individualization of Papaver somniferum. Sci Justice 2020; 60:253-262. [PMID: 32381242 DOI: 10.1016/j.scijus.2019.12.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2019] [Revised: 12/07/2019] [Accepted: 12/08/2019] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Papaver somniferum, commonly known as opium poppy, is the source of natural opiates, which are used as analgesics or as precursors in the creation of semi-synthetic opioids such as heroin. An increase in opioid addiction in the United States has resulted in high rates of illicit opioid use and overdoses. It has recently been shown that P. somniferum DNA suitable for genetic analysis can be recovered from heroin samples. The development of a comprehensive genetic individualization tool for opium poppy could serve to link cases and strengthen programs such as the Drug Enforcement Administration's (DEA) Heroin Signature Program, which seeks to combat rising opioid use. The purpose of this study was to develop a quantitative real-time PCR (qPCR) method for the quantification of opium poppy DNA, compare three commercial DNA extraction kits for their ability to isolate DNA from poppy seeds, and evaluate nineteen opium poppy short tandem repeat (STR) markers for their use in a forensic identification panel. Such a panel could be used for individualizing samples and determining the geographic origin in heroin or poppy seed tea cases. The qPCR method was proven to be reproducible and reliable, specific for P. somniferum, and sensitive enough for forensic case-type samples. Of the three kits tested, the nexttec™ one-step DNA Isolation Kit for Plants was the optimal method and facilitated rapid extraction of DNA from poppy seeds. The majority of evaluated STR primer sets were unreliable or had low discriminatory power, limiting their use for individualization of poppy samples. A six-locus STR multiplex was developed and evaluated according to Scientific Working Group on DNA Analysis Methods (SWGDAM) and International Society of Forensic Genetics (ISFG) guidelines, including the use of a sequenced allelic ladder. The multiplex was found to have low discriminatory power, with greater than two-thirds of samples analyzed having just two different genotypes. The multiplex was determined to be unsuitable for individualization; however, a genotype map was developed as a proof of concept that these markers may be useful for determining the biogeographical origin of samples. Searching the poppy genome for new STR markers and developing new primer sets may be necessary for the creation of a powerful genetic tool for the individualization of P. somniferum.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Blake Young
- Department of Forensic Science, College of Criminal Justice, Sam Houston State University, 1003 Bowers Blvd., Huntsville, TX 77340-2525, United States
| | - Madeline G Roman
- Department of Forensic Science, College of Criminal Justice, Sam Houston State University, 1003 Bowers Blvd., Huntsville, TX 77340-2525, United States.
| | - Bobby LaRue
- Department of Forensic Science, College of Criminal Justice, Sam Houston State University, 1003 Bowers Blvd., Huntsville, TX 77340-2525, United States.
| | - David Gangitano
- Department of Forensic Science, College of Criminal Justice, Sam Houston State University, 1003 Bowers Blvd., Huntsville, TX 77340-2525, United States
| | - Rachel Houston
- Department of Forensic Science, College of Criminal Justice, Sam Houston State University, 1003 Bowers Blvd., Huntsville, TX 77340-2525, United States.
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Shetge SA, Dzakovich MP, Cooperstone JL, Kleinmeier D, Redan BW. Concentrations of the Opium Alkaloids Morphine, Codeine, and Thebaine in Poppy Seeds are Reduced after Thermal and Washing Treatments but are Not Affected when Incorporated in a Model Baked Product. JOURNAL OF AGRICULTURAL AND FOOD CHEMISTRY 2020; 68:5241-5248. [PMID: 32302121 PMCID: PMC9087216 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jafc.0c01681] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/15/2023]
Abstract
Limited information exists on the effectiveness of potential treatments to reduce levels of opium alkaloids that may be present in seeds from poppy (Papaver somniferum L.). Poppy seeds containing morphine at relatively lower (14.7 mg kg-1) and higher (210.0 mg kg-1) concentrations were subjected to dry heat and steam treatments, water washing, and baking. Sample extracts were then analyzed using liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry for the opium alkaloids morphine, codeine, and thebaine. The results indicated that thermal treatment promoted opium alkaloid degradation in poppy seed samples, with a 50% loss of morphine observed after 30-40 min at 200 °C. Water washing reduced concentrations of opium alkaloids in poppy seeds by approximately 50-80%, while steam treatment resulted in reduction of morphine in only one sample type. Importantly, baking had no significant effect on concentrations of opium alkaloids. Overall, these results indicate that opium alkaloids may not be significantly affected by baking or steam application and that poppy seeds may require water washing or extended thermal treatment to promote reduction of these compounds.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shalaka A. Shetge
- Institute for Food Safety and Health, Illinois Institute of Technology, Bedford Park, IL
| | - Michael P. Dzakovich
- Department of Horticulture and Crop Science, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH
| | - Jessica L. Cooperstone
- Department of Horticulture and Crop Science, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH
- Department of Food Science and Technology, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH
| | - Daria Kleinmeier
- U.S. Food and Drug Administration, Center for Food Safety and Applied Nutrition, Office of Food Safety, Division of Plant Products and Beverages, College Park, MD
| | - Benjamin W. Redan
- U.S. Food and Drug Administration, Center for Food Safety and Applied Nutrition, Office of Food Safety, Division of Food Processing Science and Technology, Bedford Park, IL
- To whom correspondence should be addressed:
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Montgomery MT, Conlan XA, Theakstone AG, Purcell SD, Barnett NW, Smith ZM. Extraction and Determination of Morphine Present on the Surface of Australian Food Grade Poppy Seeds Using Acidic Potassium Permanganate Chemiluminescence Detection. FOOD ANAL METHOD 2020. [DOI: 10.1007/s12161-020-01729-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
|
29
|
Eisenreich A, Sachse B, Gürtler R, Dusemund B, Lindtner O, Schäfer B. What do we know about health risks related to thebaine in food? Food Chem 2020; 309:125564. [DOI: 10.1016/j.foodchem.2019.125564] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2019] [Revised: 09/13/2019] [Accepted: 09/17/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
|
30
|
Development of Carbon Quantum Dot–Labeled Antibody Fluorescence Immunoassays for the Detection of Morphine in Hot Pot Soup Base. FOOD ANAL METHOD 2020. [DOI: 10.1007/s12161-020-01700-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
|
31
|
Garcia MR, Swortwood MJ, Aune CN, Ahmad KA. Maternal Poppy Seed Tea Ingestion and Ensuing Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome. Neonatology 2020; 117:529-531. [PMID: 32629445 DOI: 10.1159/000508446] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2020] [Accepted: 05/06/2020] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
The incidence of neonatal abstinence syndrome has been rising in the USA. Nonpharmacological treatments resulting in similar withdrawal states in the newborn have also been described. We report an infant with neonatal abstinence syndrome born to a mother with daily poppy seed tea ingestion for the self-treatment of nausea. A sample of poppy seed tea was replicated using the mother's self-reported recipe. The sample was analyzed using liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry. This recipe produced a result of approximately 7.8 mg of morphine per serving which she reported to have drank 5-6 days per week, for an estimated 7 months during the course of her pregnancy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Melissa Rae Garcia
- San Antonio Uniformed Services Health Education Consortium, San Antonio, Texas, USA
| | - Madeleine J Swortwood
- Department of Forensic Science, College of Criminal Justice, Sam Houston State University, Huntsville, Texas, USA
| | - Christine Nicole Aune
- Pediatrix Medical Group, San Antonio, Texas, USA.,Baylor College of Medicine, San Antonio, San Antonio, Texas, USA
| | - Kaashif Aqeeb Ahmad
- Pediatrix Medical Group, San Antonio, Texas, USA, .,Baylor College of Medicine, San Antonio, San Antonio, Texas, USA,
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Knapp-Gisclon A, Fabresse N, Fuss-Ohlen I, Dugues P, Martin M, Larabi IA, Etting I, Mayer C, Alvarez JC. Graines de pavot présentes sur du pain anormalement contaminées aux alcaloïdes de l’opium en France. TOXICOLOGIE ANALYTIQUE ET CLINIQUE 2019. [DOI: 10.1016/j.toxac.2019.04.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
|
33
|
Opium poisoning in modern times. An overview. Forensic Sci Int 2019; 302:109848. [PMID: 31336283 DOI: 10.1016/j.forsciint.2019.06.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2019] [Revised: 05/26/2019] [Accepted: 06/05/2019] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Opium is a substance extracted from Papaver somniferum L that is chronically abused specially in the traditional production regions. Reports on opium poisoning has largely disappeared from the occidental literature on drug problems but recent scientific articles show cases of death related to opium in industrialized countries. This fact led us to consider the interest of knowing the state of the art of acute opium intoxication in modern times. This work shows a compilation of these uncommon cases occurred in different settings and circumstances. Data were obtained by a computer assisted search of the literature using the key words "opium poisoning", "poppy", "poppy seeds", and "papaver somniferum" in PubMed, accompanied by a hand search of the reference lists of all articles for any relevant studies not included in the database. In addition, Google Scholar, government reports, and cases adequately documented on websites were reviewed. Type 1 cases, Accidental opium intoxications when it is used as a recreational drug: Reported cases came mainly from industrialized countries. They were mostly male with a range age of 17-64 years. Many had antecedents of alcoholism or drug abuse and opium tea was used as a substitute of heroin. Rachacha has caused poisonings in France and has been detected in a stash in Spain. Toxicological analysis was documented in forensic cases. The danger of this renewed interest in opium is exemplified in that many of the poisoning cases resulted in fatalities. Type 2 cases, Accidental opium intoxications in children or adults when it used as folk remedy: Pediatric intoxication after the use of opium as folk remedy are mainly published in traditional opium-producing areas with a long history of use or ethnic communities in England or USA. Addiction to opium was common among relatives. Type 3 cases, Opium intoxications with poppy seeds consumed as food: Due to excessive consumption of opium seeds as food, sporadic cases of mild toxicity had been reported and morphine contents were documented. Type 4 cases: Accidental opium intoxications when using the abdominal or pelvic cavity for concealing the drug: Accidental opium body packer intoxications are seen in patients who traveled from illegal opium areas of production. Type 5 cases: Suicides by opium: Opium was a prevalent agent among cases of suicides in Iran but data are scarce.
Collapse
|
34
|
Abstract
Unwashed poppy seeds are widely available online through private websites or via well-known sellers such as eBay and Amazon. These seeds can be used to produce a tea that contains an opioid content sufficient to produce psychoactive effects and to cause withdrawal symptoms when discontinued abruptly, yet their sale and distribution is legal in the United States. Clinicians may not be aware of poppy seed tea and some individuals may use it habitually or as an analgesic. There is a paucity of literature on this topic, although a few cases of poppy seed tea intoxication and dependence have been reported. A clinical case is presented here.
Collapse
|
35
|
Montgomery MT, Conlan XA, Barnett NW, Theakstone AG, Quayle K, Smith ZM. Determination of morphine in culinary poppy seed tea extractions using high performance liquid chromatography with chemiluminescence detection. AUST J FORENSIC SCI 2019. [DOI: 10.1080/00450618.2019.1569152] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Xavier A. Conlan
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Deakin University, Geelong, Australia
| | - Neil W. Barnett
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Deakin University, Geelong, Australia
| | - Ashton G. Theakstone
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Deakin University, Geelong, Australia
| | - Kim Quayle
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Deakin University, Geelong, Australia
- Centre for Regional and Rural Futures, Deakin University, Geelong, Australia
| | - Zoe M. Smith
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Deakin University, Geelong, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
Presley CC, Lindsley CW. DARK Classics in Chemical Neuroscience: Opium, a Historical Perspective. ACS Chem Neurosci 2018; 9:2503-2518. [PMID: 30247870 DOI: 10.1021/acschemneuro.8b00459] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Opium is the latex from the opium poppy Papaver somniferum L., which humankind has utilized since ancient Mesopotamia all the way to modern times. Opium used to be surrounded in divine mystery or magic-like abilities and was given to cure a wide variety of diseases until its analgesic, antitussive, and antidiarrheal properties were understood, the resulting alkaloids were isolated, and their structure and properties unmasked. Opium went from being sold in any store front in the form of pills or tinctures with no prescription necessary for purchase or smoked in an opium den down the street, to then bringing about consumer advocacy and the right to know what is in a medication. Legislation was created to limit the prescribing and selling of medications to doctors and pharmacists as well as outlawing opium dens and smoking opium. This review focuses primarily on the uses of opium throughout history, the isolation of the principle alkaloids, and their structure elucidation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Christopher C. Presley
- Vanderbilt Center for Neuroscience Drug Discovery, Nashville, Tennessee 37232, United States
| | - Craig W. Lindsley
- Vanderbilt Center for Neuroscience Drug Discovery, Nashville, Tennessee 37232, United States
| |
Collapse
|