Daniel Lipian’s Post

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Delta-8 THC Marijuana has become a much debated marijuana derivative. This drug has similar side effects to Delta-9 THC (the primary marijuana compound tested in all 50 states), but these side effects are thought to be less potent. But now, some bars are serving "Delta-8 drinks," which mix this compound with alcohol to enhance the effects. There also have been reports of contaminants, such as Toluene (commonly found in paint thinner), mixed with this drug. The impairing effects of Delta-8 THC are now being investigated by the National Institutes of Health (NIH). State laws are not clear about how to regulate this drug and the impairing effects Delta-8 THC. Click on the link below for more information. https://lnkd.in/eJBxe2Na …see more Hemp-Derived Delta-8 Skirts Marijuana Laws and Raises Health Concerns khn.org • 7 min read

Various opioids continue to be prevalent in the market. One such compound is Kratom, which comes from an herbal plant in Southeast Asia that is imported by many consumers online. This compound is legal to possess and purchase in some states, but it is illegal in others. At low doses, it can cause stimulatory activity. At higher doses, the Kratom metabolite acts on opioid receptors in the body to cause a euphoric effect. Kratom is not typically tested in toxicology laboratories. A recent study shows the manner in which various Web sites that sell Kratom educate consumers on its effects. Here is the link: https://lnkd.in/erTmS7c

The compound Metonitazene has been identified in some postmortem toxicology testing results. Metonitazene is structurally similar to Fentanyl (and its analogues), and some scientists think it is even more potent than Fentanyl. Metonitazene can also be mixed/added with other opioids to create a greater effect. Not many laboratories test for Metonitazene, but GC/MS could help identify it. Please see the enclosed document for more information.

The Society of Forensic Toxicologists (SOFT) and the American Academy of Forensic Sciences (AAFS) have released an FAQ regarding oral fluid testing for drugs. Please click attachment to read. Some drugs that are being legalized (especially Marijuana/THC) reach peak concentration in the blood quickly; so their actual concentrations at the time of an accident are harder to approximate by the time the blood is actually tested at the hospital. However, an oral fluid test can give THC concentration results at the scene of the accident, making THC concentrations on the laboratory and police reports more reflective of potential impairment. Here are the FAQ guidelines.