Presence and composition of cathinone derivatives in drug samples taken from a Drug Test Service in Spain (2010–2012)

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to describe the presence and composition of cathinone derivatives (CDs) in drug samples analyzed at a Drug Testing Service. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Data provided by the Drug Testing Service at Energy Control (a Spanish organization working in risk reduction among recreational drug users) were obtained from samples delivered as, or containing CDs, between January 2010 and June 2012. Specimens were identified by combining thin layer chromatography and gas chromatography associated with mass spectrometry. RESULTS: Two hundred and thirty-seven (3.8%) of the 6199 samples were delivered as, or contained CDs. 22 different CDs were detected, alone or in different combinations. Methylone (24.9%), mephedrone (24.5%), 4-methylethcathinone (9.28%), and methylenedioxypyrovalerone (6.8%) were the most common CDs. These substances were also found in 80 (1.3%) of 6042 samples delivered allegedly containing drugs different from CDs (such as 3,4-methylenedioxy-N-methylamphetamine (MDMA), amphetamines, ketamine…). CONCLUSIONS: Cathinone derivatives were markedly present in the Spanish drug market during the studied period. There is no evidence to conclude that use of CDs will become widespread or relevant for public health, but the phenomenon must be followed, as the potential risks of these new drugs of abuse are substantial.