Determination of Third-Generation Synthetic Cannabinoids in Oral Fluids.

Area of Science:

• Forensic Toxicology
• Analytical Chemistry

Background:

• Third-generation synthetic cannabinoids pose a growing public health concern.
• Accurate detection in biological matrices like oral fluid is crucial for forensic investigations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and validate a semi-automated method for determining third-generation synthetic cannabinoids in oral fluid.
• To assess the efficiency and sensitivity of the microextraction by packed sorbent (MEPS) coupled with gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS).

Main Methods:

• A semi-automated microextraction by packed sorbent (MEPS) procedure was optimized.
• Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) was used for the quantitative determination.
• Five synthetic cannabinoids (5F-ADB, MMB-CHMICA, THJ-2201, CUMYL-4CN-BINACA, MDMB-CHMCZCA) were analyzed in synthetic and field saliva samples.

Main Results:

• Quantitative recoveries ranged from 89% to 124% for most cannabinoids in both sample types.
• Slightly lower recoveries (62-66%) were observed for MDMB-CHMCZCA in field saliva.
• High sensitivity was achieved with limits of detection between 10 and 20 μg/L.

Conclusions:

• The MEPS-GC-MS combination provides a selective and sensitive approach for analyzing synthetic cannabinoids in oral fluid.
• This method demonstrates significant potential for routine forensic toxicology screening.