Rapid Detection of Illicit Drugs and Psychoactive Plant Component by Green Technology DPiMS-8060

User Benefits

- Rapid screening of illicit drugs and controlled substances with direct injection technology coupled to highly sensitive mass spectrometry - Environmentally sustainable technology to reduce usage of organic solvents significantly - Minimal sample preparation of complex matrices including oil, beverage and sachet powders

Introduction

In addition to illicit substances, the abuse of ketum or kratom (Mitragyna speciosa), especially, has received significant attention. Kratom (Mitragyna speciosa) has been originally utilized by local community as traditional medicine to combat fatigue and as energy supplement. However, its primary active alkaloid, mitragynine, has opium properties and stimulant-like effect. There have been numerous cases of patients with heroin/opiate withdrawal symptoms from consumption of kratom drink. Kratom is still regulated under Poison act in most ASEAN countries and thus categorized as controlled substance. Currently, conversations to group kratom into illicit substance have been reported in USA and ASEAN countries. Illicit drugs and controlled substances are often found in various forms and mixed into complex matrices to cloak the presence. This makes it inevitable for authorities to consider more advanced, versatile and rapid detection solutions. Mass spectrometry is the gold standard in forensic drug analysis and amongst the most discriminatory technique. However, extensive sample preparation is required for complicated matrices. In this study, we reported development of accurate screening for illicit drugs and controlled substances using ambient ionization mass spectrometry by Shimadzu Direct Probe Ionization Mass Spectrometer, DPiMS-8060 (Fig. 1B). DPiMS utilizes direct injection system and thus reduces the use of organic solvents significantly. This ultrafast method (1 min) was proven to effectively monitor the presence of multiple drugs and controlled substances in complex matrices using fast and easy sample pre-treatment.

June 21, 2021 GMT