Methadone Extraction by Modified QuEChERS Method in Post-mortem Samples by Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry

Background: Extraction in the first line toxicology laboratory is the stage of analysis and diagnosis, the diagnosis process of the drug is completely dependent on the extraction method. New high-efficiency extraction methods, replace past practices. QuEChERS extraction method has already been introduced in pesticide extraction. In forensic toxicology, autopsy samples from the bodies to investigate the cause of death after extraction and analysis are interpreted by different devices.

Objective: In this paper, extraction of methadone drug substance by QuEChERS method was investigated in autopsy samples.

Method: QuEChERS extraction method an easy and fast tube method using MgSO4 and NaCl salts and ethyl acetate solvent based on the diagnosis with Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry.

Results: Methadone recovery rates in urine specimens and contents of gallbladder were evaluated. The recovery rate of methadone analysis in the samples was found to be 65%-78% by the QuEChERS method (N = 30).

Conclusion: The modified QuEChERS extraction method, as a fast, effective, and green tube method, can replace alternate methadone detection methods in postmortem samples.