Abstract
Worldwide, various inhalants are widely abused for recreational purposes, with butane and propane emerging as among the most commonly misused volatile substances, posing a significant risk of sudden death. The rapid elimination and oxidation of these highly volatile compounds upon inhalation necessitate the identification of butane and propane along with their metabolites in biological samples. Hence, the primary objective of this study is twofold: firstly, to establish a method for analyzing butane, propane, and metabolites, and secondly, to demonstrate the detection window and exposure indicators associated with the inhalation of butane and propane. In pursuit of this objective, we developed analytical methods for the determination of isobutane, n-butane, propane, and their nine metabolites in both blood and urine. Headspace-gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC–MS) and solid-phase microextraction-GC–MS were employed for the analyses, demonstrating acceptable precision and accuracy. An animal study revealed that isobutane and n-butane were only detectable below the limit of quantification (LOQ) in rat blood 5 min after exposure. Meanwhile, the three major metabolites—2-methyl-2-propanol, 2-butanol, and 2-butanone—were observed 5 min after exposure but persisted in rat urine even 5 h post-exposure. Additionally, human urine samples identified other metabolites, including acetone, acetoin, and 2,3-butanediol isomers. The presence of specific metabolites corresponding to each inhalant confirmed the abuse of butane and propane. This comprehensive approach provides valuable insights into the detection and assessment of inhalation to these volatile substances.
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.