Psilocin - The "real deal" or an extraction byproduct.
Journal of forensic sciences January 1, 2023 Ori Gutman, Dana Tenne, Uriel Bretler 2 citations
Routine analysis of an illicit drug sample unexpectedly showed both 4-acetoxy-DMT and psilocin. The authors hypothesized that the base used in sample preparation, not a true mixture, caused 4-acetoxy-DMT to hydrolyze into psilocin. Testing with ammonium hydroxide, pyridine, and sodium hydroxide confirmed that stronger bases (higher pH) increased the psilocin-to-4-acetoxy-DMT ratio, supporting degradation. Thermal decomposition was ruled out because 4-acetoxy-DMT remained stable at 200°C, the GC injection port temperature. The finding demonstrates how pre-injection laboratory procedures can inadvertently alter casework samples, urging caution in selecting reagents and processes for GC-MS analysis of such substances.