Detection of methadone and propoxyphene in stored tissue

The effect of time and storage on the detection of methadone and propoxyphene in tissue was investigated. Specimens obtained at autopsy were stored: 1) at -12 degrees C, and 2) in 10% formalin at 4 degrees C. Aliquots of these tissues were analyzed following autopsy and at intervals thereafter. Other samples were analyzed at intervals without an initial perimortem study. The aliquots were assessed by gas chromatography and Enzyme Multiplied Immuno-assay Technique (EMIT), Methadone and propoxyphene were detected in preserved tissue 19 and 24 months after death. The primary value of the EMIT technique was to confirm the drug identified and quantitated by GC.