Authors: LeBeau, Marc A.¹; Montgomery, Madeline A.¹; Morris-Kukoski, Cynthia¹; Schaff, Jason E.¹; Deakin, Anna¹; Levine, Barry²

Source: Journal of Analytical Toxicology, Volume 30, Number 2, March 2006 , pp. 98-105(8)

Publisher: Preston Publications

Abstract:

This study was designed to supplement previous attempts to establish an accurate range of normal endogenous gamma-hydroxybutyrate (GHB) concentrations in random antemortem urine samples. Furthermore, its purpose was to ascertain the effect of gender, race, age, medications, and select medical conditions on endogenous concentrations of GHB in urine and the proposed endogenous urinary GHB cutoff of 10 µg/mL. Urine samples (n = 207) were provided by subjects who reported that they had never used GHB. As part of the collection process, subjects also completed a short survey to collect information about gender, race, age, orally ingested medications, and select medical conditions. All specimens were analyzed in duplicate for the presence of endogenous GHB using a previously reported headspace gas chromatography–mass spectrometry method. The data were analyzed for tendencies among different population groups. GHB concentrations ranged from 0.00 to 2.70 µg/mL in all specimens, with a median concentration of 0.24 µg/mL. Males (n = 130) had an average endogenous GHB concentration of 0.27 µg/mL (0.00–2.70 µg/mL), whereas females (n = 77) averaged 0.29 µg/mL (0.00–0.98 µg/mL). Select medical conditions and participants' race, age ranges, and medications that were used within 48 h prior to collection were also evaluated. We believe this to be the most comprehensive study on endogenous GHB concentrations in urine to date. The results of this study will aid the interpretation of low GHB concentrations measured in urine samples, particularly in investigations of drug-facilitated crimes.

Document Type: Research article

Affiliations: 1: Chemistry Unit, FBI Laboratory, Federal Bureau of Investigation, Quantico, Virginia 22135 2: University of Maryland School of Medicine, Department of Pathology, Baltimore, Maryland 21201

Publication date: 2006-03-01

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• The Journal of Analytical Toxicology (JAT), established in 1977 and published 9 times a year, is the international source covering a broad range of clinical, forensic, and industrial laboratory topics regarding the isolation, identification, and quantitation of potentially toxic substances.

  With an emphasis on practical application, JAT articles provide improved and novel techniques for use in clinical, forensic, workplace, sports testing (doping), and other toxicology laboratories. Articles describe newly developed methods in immunoassay testing, gas chromatography, liquid chromatography, mass spectrometry, atomic absorption spectrometry, solid and liquid phase extraction techniques, and other analytical approaches. Worldwide readership includes toxicologists, pathologists, chemists, clinicians, researchers, and educators working in medical examiner and law enforcement laboratories, hospitals, university and independent analytical laboratories, as well as the drug manufacturing industry.

  Each year in October, we publish a special issue from the Society of Forensic Toxicologists.

  JAT, as determined by ISI Citation Index, is one of the two most referenced international journals in forensic science.

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