ISSN: 0022-1198
CODEN: JFSCA
Published Online: 1 July 1985
Page Count: 16

An Evaluation of Fused Silica Capillary Columns for the Screening of Basic Drugs in Postmortem Blood: Qualitative and Quantitative Analysis
Koves, EM
Research associate and section head, Toxicology Section, Centre of Forensic Sciences, Ontario

Wells, J
Research associate and section head, Toxicology Section, Centre of Forensic Sciences, Ontario

(Received 15 August 1984; accepted 24 November 1984)

Abstract

Fused silica capillary columns (Durabond®) have been evaluated for the screening of more than 100 basic drugs in postmortem blood samples. The combination of these columns, nitrogen-phosphorus detectors, and SKF-525A (internal standard) allows for the simultaneous screening and quantitation of several basic drugs such as amphetamines, amitriptyline, and codeine. Approximately 2000 blood samples have been analyzed by this procedure. The use of capillary columns results in excellent baseline stability and this, together with an autosampler and data system, enables unattended overnight operation. “Double peaking” associated with splitless injection can be a problem as can sensitivity for some of the polar drugs; however, with the extraction procedure described and the equipment used, the screening of blood for basic drugs is improved when compared with packed column technology.

Keywords:
toxicology, blood, screening procedures, capillary column

Paper ID: JFS11003J
DOI: 10.1520/JFS11003J
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