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Benztropine identification and quantitation in a suicidal overdose
T G Rosano1, J M Meola, B C Wolf
1Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Albany Medical Center, NY 12208.
Journal of Analytical Toxicology
|October 1, 1994
Summary
Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry identified and quantified benztropine in a fatal overdose case. Analysis confirmed the absence of significant N-desmethylation metabolism to norbenztropine.
Area of Science:
- Forensic Toxicology
- Analytical Chemistry
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Benztropine is an anticholinergic agent with potential for overdose.
- Accurate identification and quantification are crucial in forensic investigations.
Observation:
- A human fatality suspected to involve benztropine overdose was investigated.
- Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) was employed for analysis of blood and urine samples.
Findings:
- Benztropine was identified and quantified using GC-MS with electron impact and chemical ionization.
- Detected concentrations were 0.183 mg/L in blood and 7.12 mg/L in urine.
- No significant N-desmethylation to norbenztropine was observed, indicating limited metabolism via this pathway.
Implications:
- This study provides critical quantitative data for benztropine in a fatal overdose scenario.
- The findings aid in interpreting toxicological results and understanding benztropine's fate in the body.
- Establishes a validated analytical method for benztropine and its potential metabolites in forensic casework.