Research
New biomarker may extend detection window for date-rape drug GHB
The Brief
- Researchers at the University of Zurich have been evaluating a new biomarker for GHB, a drug commonly used to render victims unconscious.
- GHB is excreted rapidly from blood and urine, so detection is time-critical.
- The biomarker is being studied as a way to extend the window in which GHB use can be detected.
Why it matters
Toxicology results often decide whether drug-facilitated assaults can be proven, and a longer detection window would give forensic labs and clinicians more time to test samples.
Who’s affected
- forensic toxicologists
- clinicians and police investigating suspected drug-facilitated sexual assault
- #forensic toxicology
- #ghb
- #biomarkers
- #drug-facilitated crime
- #drug detection
Every hour is critical when it comes to detecting the use of drugs used to render victims unconscious. The substance GHB, which is commonly used in this way, is excreted rapidly from blood and urine. Researchers at the University of Zurich have been evaluating a new biomarker…