A validated method for the analysis and profiling of ‘nyaope’ using gas chromatography – mass spectrometry

• DOI: 10.17159/sajs.2021/8738
• Publication Date: 2021-11-25T11:58:54Z
• Authors: Pabalala M. Mthembi; Ellen M. Mweneson...; Michael D. Cole
• Keywords: cannabis; H1-99; Science (General); sample comparison; Science; Q; Social Sciences; 3. Good health; Social sciences (General); Q1-390; H; 03 medical and health sciences; 0302 clinical medicine; nyaope; GC–MS; heroin

Nyaope, a Tswana word for mixture or ‘mish-mash’, describes drug cocktail consisting of heroin, cannabis, and on occasion other controlled substances warfarin. It is highly addictive with extremely unpleasant side effects caused by withdrawal from the drug. problem especially in townships South Africa. However, its prevalence neighbouring southern African states further afield not yet known. There currently no validated method analysis comparison nyaope. We describe gas chromatography – mass spectrometry nyaope so that within-batch between-batch comparisons can successfully be made first time. The managed an accuracy within range 80–120%, precision was less than 20% all analytes linearity R2≥0.99. detection limits diamorphine, efavirenz, nevirapine Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol were 14.2, 18.6, 18.7 9.94 pg column, respectively, quantitation 43.1, 56.3, 56.6 30.1 respectively. simulated casework samples discriminated into original batches using identified components, unsupervised chemometric methods principal component hierarchical clustering, as well chromatographic profiles. Significance: A allows data exchange between law enforcement agencies Africa and, provided appropriate quality control measures are place, Africa, countries afield. Additionally, public health put place now it possible to use determine contents