A color test for rapid screening of gamma-hydroxybutyric acid (GHB) and gamma-butyrolactone (GBL) in drink and urine.
- Author:
Shao-yu ZHANG
1
;
Zeng-ping HUANG
Author Information
1. Fujian Public Security College, Fuzhou 350007, China. shaoyuzhang@126.com
- Publication Type:Journal Article
- MeSH:
4-Butyrolactone/urine*;
Alcoholic Beverages/analysis*;
Anesthetics/urine*;
Beverages/analysis*;
Forensic Medicine/methods*;
Humans;
Hydrogen-Ion Concentration;
Hydroxybutyrates/urine*;
Solvents/chemistry*;
Sulfuric Acids/chemistry*
- From:
Journal of Forensic Medicine
2006;22(6):424-427
- CountryChina
- Language:Chinese
-
Abstract:
OBJECTIVE:A rapid color test for screening gamma-hydroxybutyric acid (GHB) and its precursor gamma-butyrolactone(GBL) was investigated in drink and urine samples.
METHODS:In an acidic solution, GHB was converted to GBL, which reacted with hydroxylamine hydrochloride in presence of sodium hydroxide, forming hydroxamate. A purple complex was formed when hydroxamate reacted with ferric chloride in acidic condition.
RESULTS:Detection limit concentrations of GHB in drinks were between 0.5-2 mg/mL, less than the popular abuse concentrations of GHB. This method was usable for urine, with detection limit concentration 0.5 mg/mL. Interferences of common organic solvents and narcotics and depressants were surveyed.
CONCLUSION:This method is simple, safe, and rapid; it facilitates rapid screening of GHB and GBL in clinic and forensic laboratories.
