Characterization of iso-LSD metabolism using human liver microsomes in comparison to LSD and its applicability as urinary biomarker for LSD consumption.
Journal of analytical toxicology June 11, 2024 Xue Qin Ng, Evelyn Mei Ling Goh, Asimah Hamzah et al. 2 citations
Detecting LSD use through urinalysis is difficult because LSD is rapidly metabolized and rarely appears in urine. Instead, its primary metabolite 2-oxo-3-hydroxy-LSD is usually detected. In this study, iso-LSD, a contaminant from illicit LSD preparation, was found alongside 2-oxo-3-hydroxy-LSD in many urine samples, often at higher abundance. Metabolism experiments with human liver microsomes showed that iso-LSD breaks down more slowly than LSD, and analysis of 24 authentic urine samples detected iso-LSD in 18 of them, sometimes with traces of a possible metabolite. The slower metabolism and high detection rate suggest iso-LSD is a viable urinary biomarker for confirming LSD consumption, especially when LSD or 2-oxo-3-hydroxy-LSD are absent.