Forensic Toxicology

What is forensic toxicology?

• field that combines the practice of psychology and the law.

• an examination of all aspects of toxicity that have legal implications?

When are forensic toxicologist called in?

• answer the questions Did chemicals or drugs contribute to a person's death?

• called in to deal with cases involving drunk driving

• also investigate drug facilitated rape cases

What is postmortem drug testing?

• death investigation to establish if drugs were a contributing factor in death

• opiates

• debate about legalizing drugs

What specimens can be collected for an investigation?

• blood

• urine

• vitreous humor

• bile and liver

• gastric contents and hair

Tags

NGSS.HS-LS1-3

What are categories of drugs' that may be abused?

• opiates

• amphetamines

• cocaine

• cannabinoids

Identify situations in which a forensic toxicologist would likely be called in:

• postmortem drug testing

• workplace drug testing

• evaluate contraband materials

• psychological interview

Opiates

• large class of drugs that can cause profound euphoria

• pain relievers

• depressants and can cause death is overused

• morphine, codeine, heroi8n, narcotics

• natural product in coca leaf

Amphetamines

• stimulants that create an excitatory condition

• provoke intense euphoria

• can be easily made

• depressant

• weight loss drug

Cocaine

• stimulant that resembles amphetamine

• natural product in coca leaf

• free base and crack cocaine are able to be smoked, more drug absorption lungs

• THC is the major active agent

• provoke intense euphoria

Cannabinoids

• found in the coca leaf

• debate about legalizing

• marijuana

• THC active agent

• euphoria, perspective alterations, mood swings