Drugs of Toxic Effect Flashcards
Ethanol Metabolite
Acid-aldehyde
Methanol Metabolite
Formaldehyde -> Formic Acid
Isopropanol metabolite
Acetone
Methods of analysis for alcohol
Enzymatic immunoassay: detects alcohol dehydrogenas but cannot distinguish type. Not used in court.
GC/MS: reference method. Gas chromotography/mass spectrophotometry.
Adverse effects of Salicylate Acid
Interference with platelet aggregation, GI function, Reye’s syndrome.
Signs of Salicylate Acid Poisoning
Toxicity: hyperventilation, nausea, vomiting, fever, mental status change, seizures, GI bleed -> leads to depression and acid-base imbalance.
Respiratory Alkalosis
Metabolic Acidosis
Prevention of adulteration of drug screen samples.
Tests to ensure that the urine has not been tampered with. Specific gravity of sample Temp: 37 Degrees C pH: 5-6 Creatinine: >200
Methods to test cannabinoids
THC rapidly removed from circulation into the brain and fat. Slow elimination as result of redistribution back into circulation.
Excreted in urine and feces for long time after use.
Methods to test for amphetamines and methamphetamines
Screen urine (potential for cross reactivity with certain cold medications like sudafed or prescription meds like adderall)
GC/MS for confirmation
MDMA source
Amphetamine derivative
MDMA testing
Screen urine
Confirmation with GC/MS
Cocaine metabolite
benzoylecgonine
Found in urine ~3 days in single use
Chronic abuser detected ~20 days
Screening for cocaine
Screen: detect benzoylecgonine in urine
Confirm with GC/MS
Phenylcyclidine (PCP) screening
Screen urine (immunoassay)
Chronic use – detected 7 – 30 days after use
Confirm with GC/MS
Opiate derivatives
Opium, morphine, codeine, heroin, methadone
