Journal of analytical toxicology
June 1, 2019
Lorna A Nisbet, Fiona M Wylie, Barry K Logan et al.
40 citations
A validated gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) method can simultaneously quantify 23 new psychoactive substances (NPSs) in blood and urine, including NBOMe compounds that are usually analyzed by liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry. The method, which uses solid-phase extraction and derivatization, met SWGTOX guidelines for bias, precision, linearity, and stability. When applied to reanalyze 12 blood samples from eight cases where 25I-NBOMe, 25C-NBOMe, methoxetamine, and methylone had previously been detected, the method quantitatively detected these drugs in 75% of samples, with 42% containing either 25C-NBOMe or 25I-NBOMe. This approach offers a practical alternative for laboratories lacking specialized equipment.
Journal of forensic sciences
September 1, 2009
Barry K Logan
Dextromethorphan, a common cough suppressant, is increasingly abused for its hallucinogenic and dissociative effects at high doses. In a series of twelve drivers arrested for driving under the influence, eight had taken dextromethorphan with chlorpheniramine, and four had taken dextromethorphan alone. Blood concentrations of dextromethorphan ranged from 150 to 1220 ng/mL in combined cases and 190 to 1000 ng/mL in dextromethorphan-only cases. Drivers showed signs of central nervous system depression, including impaired driving behaviors such as weaving, lane departure, and collisions. Drug recognition experts confirmed the drivers were under the influence of a CNS-depressant drug.
Journal of analytical toxicology
March 1, 2009
Barry K Logan, Gary Goldfogel, Rebecca Hamilton et al.
Five teenage males in three states died after intentionally ingesting large, recreational doses of dextromethorphan, a common over-the-counter cough suppressant that can cause intoxication, hallucinations, and dissociation at high doses. All obtained the drug from the same internet supplier. Postmortem blood concentrations ranged from 950 to 3230 ng/mL, far above therapeutic levels. Three also had diphenhydramine, one a trace of alprazolam, and two tested positive for cannabinoids. Each death was attributed to dextromethorphan toxicity or combined drug toxicity. The article describes the drug's metabolism, pharmacology, and interaction risks, and notes that the deaths led to prosecution of three individuals involved in selling or distributing the drug.