Validation of a Simple Extraction Procedure for Stimulants Identification from Human Plasma

Abstract

In this study, a novel LC-MS/MS (Liquid Chromatography-Tandem Mass Spectrometry) method was
designed using a simple extraction procedure that was scientifically developed to capture the most relevant
stimulants, methamphetamine, MDA (3,4-Methylenedioxyamphetamine), MDMA (3,4-Methylenedioxymethamphetamine), and MDEA (Methyl diethanolamine). The LC-MS/MS method was validated using
US FDA (United States Food and Drug Administration) guidelines, and all validation requirements were
satisfactory. This protein precipitation method was specifically developed for handling large numbers of
samples with minimum cost and volume of sample. The developed method was accurate, precise, and
reproducible for quantification of stimulant from human plasma. This pilot study enrolled 100 drug addicts
to evaluate stimulant testing from plasma. Our findings found 47 cases with positive methamphetamine.
This method may be valuable for stimulant blood screening for a large and varied population because of its
efficiency and economical aspects.