Untargeted High-Resolution Mass Spectrometry for Detection of Natural Products and Confiscated Powders and Pills

Drug testing for clinical toxicology purposes is difficult given the variety of drugs and substances that can be abused. High-resolution mass spectrometry is a powerful tool for the qualitative identification of compounds in the blood and urine of exposed individuals. The interpretation of results can be greatly improved if caregivers and/or laboratorians are able to communicate with patients, family members, friends, or law enforcement (where appropriate), in order to obtain and test the drugs, plants, herbals, or chemicals that were taken. Methods are needed for the extraction, purification, and untargeted mass spectral analysis of drugs from the donated or seized materials.