Related Experiment Videos
Levamisole in Illicit Trafficking Cocaine Seized: A One-Year Study
Simona Martello1, Massimo Pieri2, Cristiano Ialongo3
1a Pharmacist, Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, Section of Legal Medicine, Social Security and Forensic Toxicology , University of Rome Tor Vergata , Rome , Italy.
Journal of Psychoactive Drugs
|August 17, 2017
Summary
Levamisole is a common adulterant in cocaine, found in over 30% of samples. Its presence in cocaine poses significant public health risks due to severe toxic side effects and should be routinely tested for in toxicological analyses.
Area of Science:
- Forensic Chemistry
- Toxicology
- Public Health
Background:
- Cocaine purity is often reduced by diluents and adulterants.
- Levamisole is a prevalent adulterant in Europe due to its physical properties and availability.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the prevalence of levamisole in seized cocaine samples.
- To highlight the public health implications of levamisole adulteration in cocaine.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of 88 seized cocaine samples.
- Identification and quantification of adulterants using analytical techniques.
Main Results:
- Seized cocaine had an average purity of 55%.
- Levamisole was the most frequent adulterant (31.8%), followed by caffeine (6.8%).
Conclusions:
- Levamisole is a significant adulterant in cocaine, posing serious health risks.
- Routine toxicological screening for levamisole is recommended in cocaine-related deaths.