Part of the Analytical Techniques in the Sciences Series (AnTS), this step by step guide presents the new developments which have taken place in sampling and drug profiling. * Includes case studies with full data and spectra * Features the newest drugs up to date * Shows readers how to carry out their own analysis .

Series Preface. Preface. Acronyms, Abreviations and Symbols. About the Author. Introduction to Drug Trends, Control, Legislation and Analysis. Amphetamine and Related Compounds. The Analysis of LSD. Cannabis sativa and Products. Diamorphine and Heroin. Cocaine. Products from Catha edulis and Lophophora williamsii. The Analysis of Psilocybin and Psilocin from Fungi. The Analysis of Controlled Pharmaceutical Drugs - Barbiturates and Benzodiazepines. Current Status, Summary and Conclusions. Appendix 1. Presumptive (Colour) Tests. Appendix 2. Less-Common Controlled Substances. Responses to Self-Assessment Questions. Bibliography. Glossary of Terms. SI Units and Physical Constants. Periodic Table. Index.

It is now recognized that to ensure the validity of a forensic science analysis, a number of criteria need to be met, including ensuring that the: * sample is suitable for the analysis * analysis to be undertaken will answer the question being asked * analysis has been correctly carried out * data has been correctly recorded * data has been correctly interpreted * findings are correctly reported The aim of this text is to provide an understanding into the analysis of drugs of abuse within the context of their control, an appreciation of the different methods that can be used for drug analysis and the reasons for their use. The major classes of drugs of abuse are addressed, the analysis of which follows a systematic framework, including description, presumptive testing, thin layer chromatography, instrumental methods and data analysis. Throughout the text, regular questions and answers are used to further develop an understanding of the processes being used. This book will appeal to undergraduate and postgraduate students of forensic science, and to forensic science practitioners who are new in post or receiving additional or refresher training. It will also appeal to those who are studying controlled substances as broadening courses in other scientific disciplines

“...a short, concise book on the analysis of illicit drugs...decidedly slanted toward...the U.K., a somewhat refreshing change from most of the other forensic science books....there is a surprising amount of material and coverage is both broad and deep...recommended. (Choice, Vol. 41, No. 5, January 2004) "...well laid out, clearly presented and easy to read...presented in a very interesting, captivating style...fulfils its stated purpose admirably..." (Trends in Analytical Chemistry, Vol 22(11), Dec 2003) "…this book is possibly the most comprehensive and practical work I have encountered…" (Chemistry World, February 2004) "…This is a well written book with many good and up-to-date references…should have a wide appeal…" (Science and Justice Vol. 43 No. 3)