GC-MS and GC-MS/MS in PCI Mode Determination of Mescaline in Peyote Tea and in Biological Matrices

• NCJ Number: 243768
• Journal: Journal of Forensic Sciences Volume: 58 Issue: 1 Dated: January 2013 Pages: 270-278
• Author(s): Cristiana Gambelunghe, Ph.D.; Remo Marsili, Ph.D.; Kyriaki Aroni, Ph.D.; Mauro Bacci, M.D.; Riccardo Rossi, M.D.
• Date Published: January 2013
• Length: 9 pages
• Publication Format: Article
• Publication Type: Case Study
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America

Annotation

This study reports a case of an underage boy suspected of mescaline abuse.

Abstract

Peyote, a cactus containing the hallucinogen mescaline, is used to induce altered states of consciousness in religious ceremonies or for recreational purpose. This study reports a case of an underage boy suspected of mescaline abuse. For this purpose, researchers analyzed a dark green liquid sample found in the bedroom of the boy whose urine and hair samples were collected shortly after the drink was found. A method by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry tandem mass spectrometry (GC-MS/MS) in positive chemical ionization mode was developed and validated in terms of linearity, specificity, accuracy, and sensitivity for mescaline determination at the low concentrations present in hair. GC-MS analysis of the liquid identified mescaline, while urine was negative; GC-MS/MS segmental hair analysis identified mescaline in the proximal segment (root to 2 cm), while the distal segments were negative. Although peyote was uncommonly encountered, its use was confirmed by segmental hair analysis that can provide long-term information about drugs use. Abstract published by arrangement with John Wiley & Sons.