GC-MS analysis of Adulterants in Captagon Tablet

Abstract

In secret laboratories various synthetic or semi-synthetic amphetamine-type stimulants (ATS) are produced and processed. Stimulants of the form of amphetamine (ATS) are the second most common illegal drugs used worldwide, following cannabis. ATS production has increased worldwide, particularly from the Middle East. Fenethylline (CaptagonTM), a derivative of amphetamine, is commonly marketed as a street drug. Objective: this research aimed at applying gas chromatography / mass spectrometry (GC / MS) for fenethylline profiling of confiscated samples from the Saudi market. Methodology: The study of GC / MS was conducted on a general-purpose column (30 mm 0.25 mm i.d) filled with 0.25 mm cross bond, 5% diphenyl dimethyl polysiloxane (Rtx-5MS). The mass was worked in the process of impacting the electron. Results and discussion: Analyzed samples showed positive results for amphetamine in concentrations ranging from 0.07 to 43.02 percent of the substance in 60 percent of the samples. Caffeine was also present in 60 per cent of the samples at levels between 0.61 and 60.31 per cent. In the MS of the other active compounds were recorded in different proportions. Lastly, the presence of other substances in fenethylline samples may contribute to intoxication.