The identification and determination of lysergic acid diethylamide in narcotic seizures

Abstract

Abstract Methods are described by which lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) can be identified and determined in the presence of heroin, other narcotics and controlled drugs. Thin layer chromatography and an Ehrlich’s-reagent spray is applied to the LSD-containing material. For confirmation, thin layer chromatography after ultra-violet irradiation and acid hydrolysis should be carried out where ergot alkaloids are present. Spectrophotofluorometric analysis of LSD can be used in the presence of heroin, other narcotics and controlled drugs with a standard error of ±2%. If ergot alkaloids are present, thin layer separation, elution and subsequent fluorometric analysis are recommended.