Abstract

The Handbook of Forensic Drug Analysis is a comprehensive chemical and analytic reference for the forensic analysis of illicit drugs. With chapters written by leading researchers in the field, the book provides in-depth, up-to-date methods and results of forensic drug analyses.

This Handbook discusses various forms of the drug as well as the origin and nature of samples. It explains how to perform various tests, the use of best practices, and the analysis of results. Numerous forensic and chemical analytic techniques are covered including immunoassay, gas chromatography, and mass spectrometry. Topics range from the use of immunoassay technologies for drugs-of-abuse testing, to methods of forensic analysis for cannabis, hallucinogens, cocaine, opioids, and amphetamine. The book also looks at synthetic methods and law enforcement concerns regarding the manufacture of illicit drugs, with an emphasis on clandestine methamphetamine production.

This Handbook should serve as a widely used reference for forensic scientists, toxicologists, pharmacologists, drug companies, and professionals working in toxicology testing labs, libraries, and poison control centers. It may also be used by chemists, physicians and those in legal and regulatory professions, and students of graduate courses in forensic science.

• Contributed to by leading scientists from around the world
• The only analysis book dedicated to illicit drugs of abuse
• Comprehensive coverage of sampling methods and various forms of analysis

“I learned a lot reviewing this book and I have been in forensic toxicology for forty years.”
— Forensic Science International
“So I can state that the contributors have done a great job in their historical entries.”
— Forensic Science International
“…very useful reference book… …belongs in libraries of colleges and universities that offer programs in criminal justice or forensic science.”
— Forensic Science International
“ .. this is a well written, comprehensive, informative book written by authors who are extremely well qualified and knowledgeable in their respective fields. It would be a fine addition to the library of any laboratory involved in the analysis of drugs of abuse.”
— Ashraf Mozayani, Forensic Science, Medicine and Pathology
“All crime labs should have this book in the library.”
— Forensic Science International
“This text should be considered an essential addition to the library of any forensic science laboratory. The book is easy to read, clearly laid out, systematic in presentation and to be wholeheartedly recommended.”
— Chemistry World, Volume 2, Number 6, 2005