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Fatal intoxication involving 2-methyl AP-237
Michael T Truver1, Michele M Crosby1,2, Alex T Gillette1
1Department of Pathology, Immunology, and Laboratory Medicine, University of Florida College of Medicine, Gainesville, Florida, USA.
Journal of Forensic Sciences
|June 2, 2023
Summary
This case report details a fatal overdose involving 2-methyl AP-237, a novel synthetic opioid. Forensic toxicology confirmed its presence in postmortem specimens, highlighting the dangers of emerging synthetic opioids.
Area of Science:
- Forensic Toxicology
- Organic Chemistry
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Novel synthetic opioids are a growing concern in the ongoing opioid epidemic.
- Structurally similar compounds frequently emerge, complicating identification and treatment.
Observation:
- A fatal intoxication case involving a 54-year-old male is presented.
- Drug paraphernalia, including a container labeled "2MAP", was found at the scene.
- Initial field testing indicated fentanyl, but further analysis was required.
Findings:
- Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry and liquid chromatography-quadrupole-time-of-flight mass spectrometry confirmed 2-methyl AP-237 in blood and urine.
- Quantitation revealed high concentrations of 2-methyl AP-237 (480 ng/mL blood, 4200 ng/mL urine).
- Three hydroxylated metabolites of 2-methyl AP-237 were identified, providing insight into its metabolism.
- Alprazolam was also detected in the blood at 55 ng/mL.
Implications:
- This case highlights 2-methyl AP-237 as a cause of fatal intoxication, even with unremarkable autopsy findings.
- The identification of metabolites aids in understanding the drug's metabolic pathways.
- Limited literature exists on the detection and quantitation of 2-methyl AP-237 in postmortem samples, emphasizing the need for further research.
Keywords:
2-methyl AP-2372-methyl buccinazine2MAPcinnamyl piperazinesnovel synthetic opioidpostmortemMore Related Videos
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