Chemical analysis of four capsules containing the controlled substance analogues 4-methylmethcathinone, 2-fluoromethamphetamine, α-phthalimidopropiophenone and N -ethylcathinone

Abstract In August 2007, four capsules containing white powders, said to have originated from an Israel-based Internet company “Neorganics”, were anonymously delivered to the Royal Adelaide Hospital, South Australia. The capsules were analysed and the active components were identified including 4-me...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Forensic science international 2010-04, Vol.197 (1), p.59-66
Main Authors: Camilleri, Andrew, Johnston, Martin R, Brennan, Michael, Davis, Sean, Caldicott, David G.E
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
2-Fluoromethamphetamine
4-Methylmethcathinone
Analogue
Biological and medical sciences
Chemical analysis
Control
Designer drugs
Distributing
Forensic medicine
Forensic science
General aspects
Hospitals
Infrared radiation
Internet
Investigative techniques, diagnostic techniques (general aspects)
Medical sciences
N-Ethylcathinone
Pathology
Prosecutions
Public health. Hygiene
Public health. Hygiene-occupational medicine
α-Phthalimidopropiophenone
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Summary:Abstract In August 2007, four capsules containing white powders, said to have originated from an Israel-based Internet company “Neorganics”, were anonymously delivered to the Royal Adelaide Hospital, South Australia. The capsules were analysed and the active components were identified including 4-methylmethcathinone, 2-fluoromethamphetamine, α-phthalimidopropiophenone and N -ethylcathinone, all of which were unlisted within South Australian controlled substance regulations. We examined the relevant scientific literature surrounding these chemicals and present both GCMS and NMR data for 4-methylmethcathinone and α-phthalimidopropiophenone, which have previously received little attention. We also present the vapour- and condensed-phase infrared spectra (IR) of 4-methylmethcathinone as these have also not been reported in the literature previously. We discuss the issues surrounding whether these chemicals can be classified as controlled substance analogues and the likely impact this could have on prosecutions of individuals distributing these products.
ISSN:0379-0738
1872-6283
DOI:10.1016/j.forsciint.2009.12.048