This document details a rapid, low-cost method for the qualitative detection of 63 drugs of abuse in whole blood samples. The method utilizes the innovative Thermal Separation Probe (TSP) sample introduction technique combined with the Low Thermal Mass (LTM) technology on the Agilent 5975T GC/MS system. A key advantage is that no sample cleanup is required, as non-volatile components remain in the TSP micro-vial after volatilization. The method relies on Agilent Deconvolution Reporting Software (DRS) to streamline data handling and identify compounds within the complex blood matrix.
The note presents experimental results demonstrating the method's sensitivity and speed. Using a fast temperature gradient, the analytical run time is reduced to approximately 6.5 minutes compared to over 28 minutes for conventional methods. The study confirms that over 94% of the 56 thermally stable drugs analyzed achieved a method detection limit of 5 ng/pL. The document includes chromatograms and deconvolution examples, such as the identification of chlorpromazine in a blood sample from a fatal overdose subject.
| Analytical column | Agilent HP-5ms LTM 10 m x 0.18 mm, 0.18 µm |
|---|---|
| Injection volume | 3-5 µL |
| Inlet temperature | 280 °C |
| Ion source temperature | 230 °C |
| Method detection limit | 5 ng/pL |
No, no sample cleanup is required as non-volatile components remain inside the TSP micro-vial after the drug compounds are volatilized.
Agilent Deconvolution Reporting Software (DRS) is used for compound identification.