3,4-Methylenedioxyamphetamine (MDA): Analytical and Forensic Aspects of Fatal Poisoning

Abstract 3,4-Methylenedioxyamphetamine (MDA) (Fig. 1) is a synthetic amphetamine derivative with reported psychotropic properties [1]. In Canada, the drug is included in the “Restricted Drugs” schedule of the Federal Food and Drug Act, and, therefore, cannot be used legitimately. In spite of this tight control, MDA, known as the “love pill,” has apparently become popular [2] in the drug oriented segment of our society. Tragic evidence of its popularity in Ontario was provided by five documented MDA fatalities examined in this laboratory within a 13 month period (1970–71).