A validated analytical method using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry with microwave fast derivatization can detect and quantify 14 psychoactive substances—including synthetic cathinones and phenethylamines—in low volumes of vitreous humor, pericardial fluid, and whole blood. The method showed linear results between 5 and 600 ng/mL, with high precision and accuracy, and extraction efficiencies ranging from 76.6% to 112.8%. It was successfully applied to authentic forensic samples in Portugal.
The main psychoactive component of Salvia divinorum, salvinorin A, can be identified and quantified in biological specimens, which is important for forensic and clinical toxicology. Despite research efforts, uncontrolled abuse of the substance has increased, posing serious short- and long-term health risks. Alternative biological matrices, such as those used as complementary postmortem samples or when blood and urine are unavailable, can provide useful information about prior exposure. This article summarizes legal aspects of Salvia divinorum and salvinorin A, along with analytical methods for determining salvinorin A in biological matrices.