Enhanced detection of drugs in complex mixtures by derivatization/secondary ion mass spectrometry

Derivatization/secondary ion (SI) mass spectrometry is a sensitive surface analysis technique. It can detect ppm levels of selected compounds in complex mixtures, as can tandem mass spectrometry. However, unlike tandem mass spectrometry it uses simpler instrumentation, since chemistry is used to select the compound of interest instead of a mass spectrometer. The application of derivatization/SI mass spectrometry is discussed regarding the analysis of drugs in aqueous media, tablets or human urine.