Identification of designer drug 2C-E (4-ethyl-2, 5-dimethoxy-phenethylamine) in urine following a drug overdose.
Proceedings (Baylor University. Medical Center) January 1, 2013 Michael J Van Vrancken, Raul Benavides, Frank H Wians 8 citations
Access to information on acquiring and synthesizing newer designer drugs has increased, largely via the Internet. As these drugs become more common, laboratory methods for identifying them have improved. This case describes an overdose of the uncommon designer drug 2C-E and explains the basics of liquid chromatography and mass spectrometry, two techniques used to isolate and identify the drug. These laboratory methods, though often overlooked, can be crucial for diagnosing and managing certain patients.