The Chemistry of Solid-Phase Extraction for Use in Forensic Toxicology

Modern solid-phase extraction (SPE) chemistry dates back to 1986 when three researchers began developing applications for high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) analysis. It was found that when C18 was added directly to urine, steroids could be extracted. From this start, SPE was further developed when various bonded silica gels were packed into syringe barrels, expanding the number of drugs that could be extracted by this technique. Since then, significant advancements have been made in the field. This book provides detailed background information on the chemistry and biological action of various drugs, the chemistry of silica-gel sorbents along with newer polymer sorbents and how their properties affect extraction. Here clinical methods are outlined that have been developed for forensic analysis of drugs of abuse performed in the laboratories of United Chemical Technologies, Inc. Step-by-step drug extraction procedures and analysis methods from a variety of matrices such as blood, urine, hair, and other substrates are shown. Instrument analysis conditions for HPLC and gas chromatography (GC), and laboratory equipment employed are described. Drugs covered in this complete how-to-do book cover a wide range of compounds ranging from hypnotics, antidepressants, opiates, analgesics, psychedelics, and steroids. Extensive references are provided.