Identification of designer drug 2C-E (4-ethyl-2, 5-dimethoxy-phenethylamine) in urine following a drug overdose.

Access to information on acquiring and synthesizing newer designer drugs has increased, largely via the Internet. As these drugs become more common, laboratory methods for identifying them have improved. This case describes an overdose of the uncommon designer drug 2C-E and explains the basics of liquid chromatography and mass spectrometry, two techniques used to isolate and identify the drug. These laboratory methods, though often overlooked, can be crucial for diagnosing and managing certain patients.

Study at a glance

Abstract

In recent years, access to information regarding acquisition and synthesis of newer designer drugs has been at an all-time high due largely to the Internet. As these drugs have become more prevalent, laboratory techniques have been developed and refined to identify and screen for this burgeoning population of drugs. This provides a unique opportunity for learning about many of these methods. Laboratory testing techniques and instrumentation are obscure to many health care professionals, yet their results are crucial. Here, we present a case of an overdose of an uncommon designer drug (2C-E) and discuss the basics of liquid chromatography and mass spectrometry, two important techniques used in isolating and identifying the drug. Although often overlooked and taken for granted, these techniques can play a pivotal role in the diagnosis and subsequent management of select patients.