COMPREHENSIVE DRUG SCREENING IN URINE USING SOLID-PHASE EXTRACTION AND COMBINED TLC AND GC/MS IDENTIFICATION

A simple and sensitive identification system for the detection of a broad spectrum of drugs is described. ChemElut extraction tubes were used for isolation of drugs from urine. Specimens were screened by thin-layer chromatography (TLC) and confirmed by gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC/MS). Special procedures for buprenorphine, cannabinoids, cocaine, LSD, morphine, phencyclidine, halogenated hydrocarbons, paracetamol, and alcohols were used. This system is useful for screening samples in misuse, impaired driving, poisoning, and other forensic cases. It covers about 300 substances including all potentially abused drugs and their metabolites.