This study presents a headspace gas chromatography method with flame ionization detection (GC-FID) for the determination of ethanol and methanol content in biological fluids such as blood, urine and saliva, emphasizing matrix effects onto headspace analytical results. The addictive potential of designer drugs is not negligible. There is evidence that negative health and social consequences may affect recreational and chronic users.
The absence of legal risks, the ease of obtaining these drugs, the moderate cost, and the availability via the Internet are the main features that attract users, but the number of intoxicated people presenting with emergencies is increasing. Designer drugs are often labeled as "not for human consumption" to circumvent drug abuse legislation. These drugs are sold online as bath salts. Synthetic cathinones are phenylalkylamine derivatives that may possess amphetamine-like properties. Cathinone is a naturally occurring beta-ketone amphetamine analog found in the leaves of the Catha edulis plant. These drugs are available on the Internet or in head shops as incense or air fresheners to circumvent the law. Synthetic cannabinoids are psychoactive herbal and chemical products that mimic the effects of cannabis when used. New designer drugs (synthetic cannabinoids and synthetic cathinones) are new "legal highs" that are sold online for recreational public or private use. The Scientific Working Group for Forensic Toxicology (SWGTOX ) was formed with the mission of developing and disseminating consensus standards for the practice of forensic toxicology. Among the FTC’s stated objectives is to promote the advancement and development of forensic toxicology. The Forensic Toxicology Council (FTC) was formed in 2009 with representatives from the American Board of Forensic Toxicology (ABFT), the American Academy of Forensic Sciences (AAFS), and the Society of Forensic Toxicologists (SOFT). The US Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and the Department of Justice also publish reports that include a comprehensive list of substances of abuse with its DEA Schedule. The US National Institute of Drug Abuse (NIDA) publishes and periodically updates reports on the most commonly abused drugs.
Several organizations collaborate to enhance procedures and analytical techniques and to provide information to scientists and governments. These data are of paramount importance when results are presented, debated, and challenged in courts. Procedures utilized in forensic sciences are very significant as it is critical to document details on a) analytical methodology such as instrumentations, sensitivity, and measures of uncertainty and b) chain of custody with elements such as sample collections, processing, handling times, and all involved personnel. Analyzed items may include biological samples, drugs, toxins, plants, environmental chemicals, and any product where the results of the analysis may clarify criminal activities and past or current events. Forensic toxicology disciplines covers death investigation, and aspects related to behavioral or human performance such as impaired driving due to drug consumption, steroid use by athletes, and workplace drug testing. Forensic toxicology is the science of applying the principles of analytical chemistry and toxicology for medico-legal purpose where the results are likely to be used in court or for administrative actions.